Rolling Along the Iron Curtain: The 'Night Wolves' Saddle Up for Brandenburg
Ultra-Nationalist Motorcycle Group Night Wolves Arrive in Brandenburg - Riding into Brandenburg, the nationalist "Night Wolves" motorcycle group have arrived.
These pro-Russian motorcyclists riding under the banner of the nationalist "Night Wolves" group paid respects at two Soviet memorial sites in the Brandenburg province. The riders, approximately 60 in number, adorned in leathers, laid wreaths in Schönwalde and Baruth en route to Berlin. The region’s police kept a watchful eye on the proceedings. Earlier, the convoy of about 50 motorcycles made a pit-stop in Dresden.
The “Night Wolves” have been stirring controversy since their March on Berlin commenced in mid-April, starting in Moscow. Recent years have seen them embark on a polarizing “victory ride” - their ride from the heart of Mother Russia to the heart of Germany. In 2015, German authorities denied entry to several members and revoked their visas.
The “Night Wolves” are a motley crew, proudly espousing their political loyalties to the Kremlin, Mr. Putin, and the dissolution of Crimea from Ukraine. Known for their militant nationalism, the club has established a foothold in more than just Russia, with factions across Eastern Europe. Some of these members even face EU sanctions.
_Night Wolf | Brandenburg | End of War | Berlin | Motorcyclists | Moscow | Memorial, Baruth_
Cruising the Pages of History
This band of Russian hell-raisers can trace their roots back to 1989 in Moscow. Since then, they’ve staked their claim in the world of Russian nationalism, supporting Mr. Putin's government. Over time, they’ve expanded their influence abroad, too, with various chapters springing up in countries like Slovakia.
The Triumphant Voyage
The “Victory Ride” from Moscow to Berlin serves as a nod to the Soviet soldiers who fought valiantly during World War II. This motorcycle journey typically criss-crosses Eastern European lands, including Brandenburg, drawing attention to significant war memorials along the way. With their arrival in Brandenburg, they inadvertently added a dash of political tension to the region.
Caught in the Crossfire
The Night Wolves' events in Europe ignite fierce debates, frequently pitting their pro-Russian stance against the sentiments of the local populace, especially in places affected by the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Additionally, with the anniversary of World War II’s end in Europe, the 2025 “Victory Ride” took place amidst increased geopolitical tension, leading to heightened security and restrictions on pro-Russian iconography in Berlin.
- The Commission has been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation, taking into consideration the increased presence of the Night Wolves motorcyclists in Brandenburg.
- Amidst the continuous journey of the Night Wolves, an incident occurred in Brandenburg, where a member of the group, identified as a wolf, was found involved in a crime-and-justice case, leading to an investigation into the convoy's activities.
- In a shocking turn of events, a member of the Night Wolves, while in Brandenburg, was granted a visa to stay in Germany for a brief period, raising questions about the politics surrounding visas and the country's stance on war-and-conflicts, particularly with Russia.
- As the Night Wolves made their way through Brandenburg, the general-news media picked up on the group's stop at Schönwalde, discussing the implications of their presence on the region's history and the potential revival of Cold War tensions.
- With the recurring visits of the Night Wolves to Brandenburg, local motorcyclists have expressed concerns about their safety on the roads, urging the authorities to address the issue, as well as the political and historical implications of the Russian group's rides.
