Ukrainian Ambassador Calls for Russia's Exclusion from Commemoration Events

As the annual observance of the historic meeting between American and Soviet soldiers approaches, the Ukrainian ambassador, Oleksii Makeiev, has urged for Russia's exclusion from the planned commemorative events in Torgau, Germany. This call comes on the heels of a significant Russian missile and drone attack on Kyiv that resulted in the loss of at least twelve lives.

Makeiev expressed that representatives of what he termed a 'criminal regime' should not be welcomed at such memorials, stating that allowing Russia's participation would effectively reward acts of aggression and undermine the solemn pledge for peace made by nations. He emphasized that given the context of Russia's ongoing military actions, the response should be one of exclusion rather than acceptance.

On April 25, the city of Torgau plans to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the encounter between American and Soviet forces at the Elbe River, a moment symbolically recognized as a pivotal point in the conclusion of World War II. The Russian ambassador, Sergej Netschajew, has indicated his intent to attend the ceremonies, a move that the local organizers have not opposed.

The Prime Minister of Saxony, Michael Kretschmer, acknowledged the planned attendance of Netschajew but noted that the event is primarily organized by Torgau itself. Meanwhile, the United States has opted not to participate in the commemorative activities.

Every year, Torgau marks what is referred to as 'Elbe Day,' memorializing the historic handshake between the two nations' soldiers on the bridge, which became an emblem of victory over Nazi tyranny. Makeiev has articulated that Russia's actions have starkly contravened the spirit of peace associated with this event, suggesting that instead of a handshake, Russia deserves to face accountability for its military aggression.

In response to the ambassador's comments, Netschajew defended Russia's participation, dismissing allegations that the commemoration would serve as a platform for propaganda. He argued that the remembrance of World War II, including the Soviet Union's critical role in defeating Nazism, should stand apart from contemporary political dynamics.

Prior to this, the German Foreign Office recommended that local authorities and memorial sites consider excluding Russian and Belarusian officials from participation, citing concerns that Russia could exploit these remembrance events to align them with its current military actions in Ukraine.

Despite the controversy surrounding his presence, Netschajew had recently attended a memorial event at the Seelower Heights, a significant battlefield from the war. Here, he reiterated the importance of remembering the sacrifices made during the conflict, including those of the Soviet Union.

Political voices within Germany, including from the Left Party, have echoed calls for barring Russian officials from commemorative events, arguing that those leading an aggressive war should not be honored at peace observances. However, it was also noted that Russian veterans and individuals affected by the war should still be allowed to participate in remembrance activities, reflecting a nuanced perspective towards the contributions of those who suffered during the conflict.