Riding With the "Night Wolves" to Berlin: A Bold Tribute to Russia's Victory
Russian paramilitary group "Nochnye V olkah" (Night Wolves) place floral tributes in Brandenburg, Germany.
The notorious Russian motorcycle group, the "Night Wolves," has kicked off a provocative journey to Berlin, proclaiming their "victory ride" as a symbolic tribute to the end of World War II. Despite running into sanctions due to their controversial views on Ukraine, this group of hardcore nationalists continues to press forward.
The "Night Wolves" made a pit stop in Brandenburg, visiting two Soviet war memorial sites in Schönwalde and Baruth. Accompanied by the police, around 60 bikers and 50 motorcycles set foot in Dresden earlier.
The "Night Wolves" embarked on their ride from Moscow in late April, with the intention of commemorating World War II in Berlin. This isn't the first time the club has made this controversial journey—they've undertaken it repeatedly since 2015, inciting heated controversy in Germany.
A Tribute to History or Political Manipulation?
On May 9, the "Night Wolves" plan to honor the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II at the Soviet Memorial in Treptower Park, Berlin. As they see it, this isn't just recognition of the victory over fascism, but also a testament to the lasting values of peaceful coexistence and friendship between nations.
The "Night Wolves" are extreme nationalists who staunchly uphold Russian President Vladimir Putin and support the annexation of Crimea. Being under sanctions, the group's ability to travel to Berlin remains questionable.
Several members seem unperturbed by the debate over whether Russian representatives should be allowed to partake in official World War II commemorations. "Russia has no one to ask, and Russia asks no one," said one member. Another highlighted their ancestors' involvement in the Red Army during World War II and expressed understanding of the controversial welcome.
Despite the contentious reception, the "Night Wolves" are optimistic that members of their club will be in Berlin on May 9, as the club has German members as well. They paid their respects and laid wreaths of red carnations on the eve of an official World War II commemoration in Torgau on the Elbe.
A Farewell to Winter and a Welcome to the Biking Season
Kicking off the biking season in style, the "Night Wolves" left Moscow amid a spectacle. Over an hour was needed for hundreds of motorcycle riders to exit the club's grounds. In Moscow, the streets were closed for their departure.
Some bikers wore camouflage uniforms, while others donned vests bearing the club's iconic snarling wolf logo and flame tail. Flags of the club, Russia, and Germany flew prominently, alongside the "Z" symbol, which is banned in Germany due to its association with Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
World War II officially ended on May 8, 1945, when Germany surrendered. Ever since, on May 9, Russia celebrates "Victory Day," marking its triumph over Hitler's Germany. Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier recently issued stern warnings to the Bundestag about the return of nationalism, dictatorship, and war. He pointed out that the liberators of Auschwitz have become new aggressors, criticizing Vladimir Putin's Russia.
Unraveling the Symbolism of the "Victory Ride"
The "Night Wolves'" "Victory Ride" is an intricate blend of WWII commemoration and contemporary political messaging. While it venerates the Soviet victory in the war, it also functions as a platform for Russian nationalist propaganda, asserting Russian influence and strength in Europe as tensions with Ukraine continue to unfold. European countries have responded cautiously, seeking a balance between honoring the past and managing potential propaganda or security issues given the club's ties to Russian politics.
The "Night Wolves" have announced their intention to hold a "Victory Ride" to Berlin, not only as a symbolic tribute to the end of World War II, but also as a testament to their support for Russian President Vladimir Putin and the annexation of Crimea. This monetary union of bikers, adorned in their club's symbols, is planning to lay wreaths on memorials, despite ongoing sanctions and controversy.
Meanwhile, European-leagues, including the Premier League, are grappling with the implications of the "Victory Ride," as the "Night Wolves" have German members and are optimistic about participating in the commemoration on May 9. The economic and monetary union surrounding this event is complex, with tensions between Russia and Ukraine playing a significant role in shaping the reception of the "Victory Ride" across Europe.
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