Pro-Russia demonstrations planned in Hanover and Frankfurt at weekend

Demonstrations in support of Moscow's war against Ukraine are planned in at least two German cities this weekend, following outrage over a pro-Russian motorcade with 400 vehicles through the streets of Berlin last weekend.

A convoy is to drive through Hanover on Sunday. A police spokesperson for the city spoke of registered participant numbers "in the mid to upper three-digit range." A local association has called for a counter-demonstration.

A motorcade with 700 vehicles originally announced for Sunday in Frankfurt will not take place, however.

But the city said a pro-Russia event under the motto "Against hate speech and discrimination against Russian-speaking fellow citizens" could be held under strict conditions to ensure public safety and order. Up to 2,000 participants have been registered.

In addition, the wearing of certain symbols and insignia is prohibited, such as the letters V and Z as well as the Russian military's Saint George's Ribbon. All are used to show support for Russia's attack on Ukraine.

Last Sunday, a motorcade through Berlin shocked residents. Flags in the Russian colours white, blue and red could be seen on numerous cars. The Z symbol was also displayed.