Controversial Russian envoy's attendance at Saxony event stirs diplomatic tensions
During the ceremony in Saxony, Premier Michael Kretschmer criticised Russia for its actions in Ukraine. The presence of the Russian ambassador sparked controversy, despite opposition from the Ukrainian ambassador and the German Foreign Ministry.
Main points
- Saxon Premier Michael Kretschmer criticised Russia for the war in Ukraine.
- Russian Ambassador Sergey Nechaev attended the ceremony in Torgau.
- The German Foreign Ministry recommended avoiding inviting Russian representatives to such events.
During the ceremony in Torgau, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the meeting of American and Soviet soldiers on the Elbe, Saxon Premier Michael Kretschmer used the occasion of the Russian ambassador's presence to remind everyone of Russia's responsibility for the war in Ukraine.
It was Russia that started the war against Ukraine in violation of international law. Not in [2022], but back in 2014. And only Russia, only Russia must end this war, said Kretschmer.
The presence of Russia's Ambassador to Germany, Sergey Nechaev, at the ceremony in Torgau sparked controversy. The Ukrainian ambassador and the German Foreign Ministry strongly opposed the participation of Russian representatives in the commemorations. The German Foreign Ministry recommended avoiding inviting Russians to ceremonies related to the end of World War II.
Nechaev, surrounded by journalists, stated that being at the ceremony was important to him due to the memory of the fallen soldiers. "We must remember the fallen soldiers, so this day is very important for us," he said. Despite the controversy, the diplomat was not allowed to speak during the wreath-laying ceremony.
Ukrainian ambassador warns
The Ukrainian Ambassador to Germany, Oleksii Makeiev, warned against Russian participation in the commemorations, highlighting the ongoing bombing of Ukrainian cities and torture of civilians by Russia. "The Russians have trampled on their own ancestors' contribution to the victory over National Socialism," assessed Makeiev.
The commemorations in Torgau, meant to symbolise the end of World War II, became a scene of political tension. The presence of the Russian diplomat sparked opposition and served as a reminder of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The German Foreign Ministry is endeavouring to prevent the instrumentalisation of history by Russia.
