Magdeburg (dpa/sa) – The “Z” symbol as support for the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine has already been noted many times in Saxony-Anhalt. Between February 24 and May 23, it was registered 46 times as an endorsement of criminal offenses, the Ministry of the Interior announced in Magdeburg on Wednesday. In addition, seven public statements, contributions or actions were identified that suggested sympathy or glorification of the Russian war of aggression.
“In Saxony-Anhalt we do not allow any glorification or even approval of the illegal Russian war of aggression against the free, sovereign state of Ukraine,” said Interior Minister Tamara Zieschang (CDU). “Any actions, statements or symbols that already express approval of the Russian war of aggression are criminal offenses and are also consistently investigated and prosecuted by the state police.” Corresponding symbols would be removed immediately and not even allowed at meetings.
The “Z” is used by the Russian armed forces and in Russian politics and the public as a sign of the war of aggression that violates international law, the Interior Ministry said. The symbol also stands for possible war crimes. Anyone who shows the “Z” publicly in connection with the Russian war of aggression must expect a preliminary investigation.
