ultra-nationalist biker gang 'Night Wolves' affiliated with Putin pay tribute by placing floral arrangements in Brandenburg

Riding for Power: The "Night Wolves" and Their Controversial Journey to Berlin

Russian allies, known as "Night Wolves," pay respects by placing wreaths in Brandenburg, Germany.

The notorious Russian motorcycle club, the nationalist "Night Wolves," is currently embarking on a polarizing rally they've dubbed the "Victory Ride" to Berlin, despite the ongoing political strife that surrounds them. Their journey is studded with controversy due to their strong backing of Vladimir Putin and their measured stance on Ukraine, which has resulted in various sanctions.

Kicking off their ride in Moscow, these hard-lined bikers are making their way through Europe, paid visits to multiple Soviet memorial sites in Brandenburg, spurring curiosity and unease. The police have been present at each symbolic stop, as the club lays wreaths and pays respects at places like Schönwalde and Baruth before pushing on to Berlin. Earlier in their adventure, the troupe made a brief pit stop in Dresden.

The "Victory Ride" is part of a larger narrative; it aims to commemorate the 80th anniversary of World War II's end, which the "Night Wolves" believe will symbolize the triumph over fascism and the enduring values of peaceful coexistence and camaraderie among peoples. Notably, they've chosen Berlin's Soviet Memorial in Treptower Park for their final destination, where they'll mark the significant occasion on May 9.

Allegiance to Putin and the Annexation of Crimea

Closely linked with President Putin, the "Night Wolves" are fervent nationalists who firmly support the annexation of Crimea. Due to their stance on Ukraine, the group and its individual members are subject to sanctions, making it uncertain if they will indeed arrive in Berlin.

As the winds of debate sweep through Germany over whether Russian representatives ought to be permitted at official World War II commemorations, "Night Wolves" members express a sense of self-importance, stating that Russia requires no permission and feels no obligation to seek approval. They insist that, having lost 27 million people during World War II, they are entitled to have their presence acknowledged.

Although some members remain optimistic about their chances of being in Berlin on May 9, others keep their expectations low, hinting that the ride might not even reach its destination. Meanwhile, the club has supporters in Germany as well, who might join the convoy as it edges closer to Berlin.

A Ride to Remember

The bikers set off at the end of April with the intention of celebrating the World War II anniversary in Berlin, echoing their route from the previous year. In 2015, German authorities invalidated the visas of several members and detained them, preventing them from partaking in the "Victory Ride."

However, this time around, the Russian bikers seem undeterred by potential challenges, as they deck out their bikes with camouflage uniforms, vests emblazoned with the club's emblem, and both Russian and German flags. Their passage leaves an impression, with cities like Moscow shutting down streets in their honor.

As the bikers approach Germany, tensions abound, with many concerned about the potential for Russian propaganda and the glorification of military actions that breach international law. Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has expressed worry about the resurgence of nationalism, dictatorship, and war, pointing to Germany's pivotal role in defeating Hitler's fascism. Steinmeier warns of the potential dangers posed particularly by those countries that aggressively challenged the Allies during World War II.

The controversial "Victory Ride" by the "Night Wolves," a Russian motorcycle club, is currently traversing Europe, driven by their support for Vladimir Putin and their stance on Ukraine.
In Brandenburg, they have paid visits to multiple Soviet memorial sites, causing curiosity and unease, as they lay wreaths and pay respects at sites like Schönwalde and Baruth.
The "Night Wolves" believe their "Victory Ride" commemorates the 80th anniversary of World War II's end and symbolizes the triumph over fascism, with their final destination being Berlin's Soviet Memorial in Treptower Park.
Despite the ongoing political controversy and sanctions, the "Night Wolves" assert that they require no permission and feel no obligation to seek approval, citing Russia's losses during World War II.
As the "Victory Ride" approaches Berlin, concerns about Russian propaganda and the glorification of actions breaching international law persist, with Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier expressing worry about the resurgence of nationalism and war, especially from countries that aggressively challenged the Allies during World War II.