Germany: Rallies likely in major cities, including Berlin and Hamburg, May 8-9 to mark Victory in Europe Day

Various activist groups, including anti-fascist organizations and pro-Russia activists, will likely hold separate demonstrations in major cities across Germany May 8-9 to mark Victory in Europe Day. Although attendance levels are unclear, related demonstrations in previous years have attracted numbers ranging from the low hundreds to around one thousand. The largest demonstrations will likely take place in Berlin and Hamburg. The details of the likely most disruptive demonstrations in these cities are as follows:

May 8

• Hamburg: Rally in Platz der Judischen Deportierten from 16:30.

• Hamburg: Rally in Rathausmarkt from 17:30.

• Berlin: Rally at Soviet War Memorial in Treptow Park from 16:00.

May 9

• Berlin: Rally on Strasse des 17 Juni from 11:30.

• Berlin: Rally at Brandenburg Gate from 17:00.

Additional rallies are highly likely in Berlin and Hamburg, as well as in other major cities across Germany. Authorities will likely deploy additional police to monitor any events that occur. Large crowds and associated security measures could prompt localized travel disruptions. Counterdemonstrations are possible. Police in Germany are proficient at ensuring rival demonstrations do not come into contact; however, clashes between rival demonstrators are possible. Additionally, police in Berlin have banned the display of Russian flags and other symbols that may glorify Russia, the Soviet Union, or the Russia-Ukraine war. Any actions in violation of the ban will likely provoke police action; clashes between police and protesters are possible. Bystanders would face an incidental risk if any violence occurs.