On May 9, a Russian diplomat, Sergei Andreyev, is planned to lay a wreath at the Mausoleum of the Soviet Soldier Cemetery in Warsaw. Last year, an incident outside the necropolis saw a public figure associated with the Russian government splashed with a red liquid symbolizing blood. A Foreign Ministry spokesperson emphasized that the ministry received a formal note and did not advise permitting the described ceremonies.
Andreyev also seeks to mark “Victory Day” this year
May 9 holds significance as a Victory Day for Russia. Propaganda parades occur both within Russia and in Poland, though the Polish events are more restrained. The atmosphere surrounding such commemorations often evokes strong responses, given the ongoing broader context of Russia’s actions in Ukraine since February of the previous year. In Poland, more than a million Ukrainian residents have sought shelter during this period.
Despite last year’s controversial proceedings around the Mausoleum of Soviet soldiers in Warsaw, the Russian ambassador, Sergei Andreyev, appeared to proceed with plans. Reports indicate there were intentions not only to lay wreaths but also to organize a rally for roughly 300 participants, potentially led by a private individual as an anti-war demonstration.
In a conversation with a media outlet, a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry stated that the ministry had received the formal note regarding the ceremonies.
The note advised that the above ceremonies should not take place
the spokesperson noted.
When asked about potential protests and whether Polish authorities would permit law enforcement resources as requested by the Russians, the spokesperson clarified that the Mausoleum of Soviet soldiers does not fall under the Foreign Ministry’s jurisdiction. The situation remains under the purview of other authorities.
Nevertheless, no notification about the event was received by the capital’s authorities, including the city hall of Warsaw, which also indicated it had not been asked to grant occupancy of rights of way. The location remains a cemetery, and individuals wishing to place flowers there typically do not require special permission, according to the city hall’s spokesperson.
Shortly after, a call came to the city hall for a rally for about 300 people to take place in front of the Mausoleum between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. The event was reported by a private individual, suggesting it could be an anti-war demonstration.
Iconic moment from last year
During the prior year’s commemorations, the Russian ambassador was doused with red liquid intended to symbolize the bloodshed associated with actions attributed to the Kremlin leadership. A confrontation ensued as demonstrators reclaimed wreaths from a Kremlin representative, who was subsequently escorted away by police.
Authorities reported that measures were taken to ensure safety, and security teams coordinated with the ambassador’s escort. Images and footage from the event circulated widely, illustrating the heightened tensions surrounding the anniversary.
Related discussions within the capital have highlighted warnings from government offices. Officials have suggested that appearances at such sites can be provocative and have urged restraint from all sides.
Discussion of reactions from Polish and American diplomatic personnel has continued in the aftermath of last year’s incident, reflecting ongoing sensitivities around protests and ceremonial access.
Source materials indicate broad public and political commentary on the incident, with various outlets reporting on the developments and responses from Polish authorities and observers. These reports reflect an ongoing debate about symbolism, memory, and the boundaries of public commemoration in a tense geopolitical moment.