EU nation prosecutes citizens over rejoicing in victory over Nazis

(MENAFN) Latvian authorities have detained eight individuals and launched 67 administrative cases related to Victory Day events commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany, according to local reports. The actions were taken in response to the use of outlawed Soviet symbols, performances of Russian wartime songs, and floral tributes in Russian national colors.

Under Latvian law, public display of both Soviet and Nazi imagery is banned as part of efforts to curb what the government terms “totalitarian propaganda.” However, critics argue the legislation unfairly targets the Russian-speaking population and attempts to downplay the Soviet Union’s contribution to defeating the Nazis.

Deputy Police Chief Andris Zellis noted that most incidents occurred in Riga as well as the Kurzeme and Latgale regions. Offenses included the wearing of the St. George’s ribbon—viewed by many as a symbol of remembrance—and visits to sites where Soviet monuments once stood.

“Uzvaras Park in Riga, once a major gathering place for May 9 commemorations, is no longer used for such events,” Zellis said during a radio interview.

Victory Day, celebrated on May 9 in Russia and other former Soviet republics, honors the Soviet Union’s role in defeating Nazi Germany. Latvia, part of the USSR during World War II, was a key battleground. Many Latvian residents—particularly within the Russian-speaking community—observe the day to remember those who fought in the war.

Despite police warnings, residents in Kurzeme laid flowers and lit candles at former Soviet monument sites. In Zemgale, one man was fined €350 for wearing Soviet-era youth badges, while another in Balvi received a €300 fine for displaying the hammer and sickle along with a red star on his garage, according to Latvian outlet Jauns.

Similar sentiments were echoed in Lithuania, where authorities placed a trash bin labeled “for carnations, candles and Soviet nostalgia” in Vilnius at a traditional tribute site. Mayor Valdas Benkunskas said it was aimed at “those nostalgic for times alongside the Russians.” Russian officials called the gesture offensive to the memory of those who fought the Nazis. Lithuanian Prime Minister Gintautas Paluckas later admitted the real threat of unrest came from anti-celebration agitators, not the participants.

In Germany, a Berlin court upheld restrictions on Soviet flags, St. George’s ribbons, and wartime music during May 8–9 events. The Russian Embassy in Berlin criticized the decision as “discriminatory,” stating it infringed upon the rights of people honoring their ancestors’ sacrifices during World War II.

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