The recent protest in Berlin saw thousands unite in opposition to Russian President Vladimir Putin and the ongoing war in Ukraine, led prominently by Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of the notable Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny. This rally marked a significant moment for the opposition movement, returning to prominence after the exile of many dissenters from Russia due to an increasing government crackdown on political disagreement. The event took place on November 17, 2024, and was characterized by chants of “no to war” and “Putin is a killer,” echoing through the streets as supporters waved blue-and-white opposition flags alongside Ukrainian colors.
In a powerful address, Yulia Navalnaya emphasized the necessity of perseverance in protesting, stating, “One protest alone won’t change anything. We need to keep coming out.” Her words resonated deeply with the assembled crowd, who had gathered not only for themselves but also for those in Russia unable to voice their dissent due to the risks involved. Recognizing the tragic circumstances surrounding many political prisoners in Russia, Navalnaya invoked the memory of her husband, urging participants to act in the same determined spirit he embodied. Furthermore, she called for a unified front, encouraging ongoing demonstrations to support not just their cause but also the myriad of individuals persecuted for their beliefs back home.
While the march focused primarily on the Kremlin’s aggression in Ukraine, it aimed to mend some perceived rifts with Ukrainians who have expressed frustration with the Russian opposition’s efforts. In a recent incident, Navalnaya faced backlash from Ukrainian activists who interrupted her speech in Lisbon, demanding a condemnation of the Russian invasion. This protest in Berlin sought to address those sentiments by showing solidarity with Ukrainians, although a participant voiced concern over oversimplified slogans like “Putin = war,” advocating instead for a recognition of the complex realities of Russian support for the invasion.
Oleg Orlov, co-chair of the Nobel Peace Prize-winning organization Memorial, also lent his voice to the rally, expressing firm support for Ukraine while condemning Putin’s regime. Orlov, who has experienced imprisonment in his home country for his outspoken anti-war stance, highlighted the significance of military aid to Ukraine. His remarks underlined the notion that countering Putin’s ambitions is inseparable from the future of a free Russia, warning that peace at any cost with the aggressor could undermine broader European stability.
As the demonstration concluded outside the Russian embassy on Unter Den Linden, Navalnaya and her fellow leaders expressed gratitude to the crowd gathered in solidarity. The atmosphere was one of commemoration and resistance, with the leaders connecting their struggles to the larger narrative of justice and international support for Ukraine.
Vladimir Kara-Murza, another prominent opposition figure recently released from imprisonment, articulated the dire situation for dissenters in Russia, stressing that for many, even the smallest acts of protest now carry severe consequences. He also labeled the Russian embassy as “a spy nest of Russia,” reflecting a sentiment shared by many in the exile community.
Amid the expressions of solidarity and resolution, voices within the protest highlighted the emotional toll on Russians living in exile—individuals like Anastasia, a young IT worker who fled Russia in March 2022. Speaking to the importance of these gatherings, she articulated the challenges of protesting against authoritarian governance, emphasizing the necessity of solidarity among those who have left their homeland.
While the turnout was not as large as some had anticipated, the diversity of the crowd indicated an expansive coalition, uniting various political views in pursuit of a common goal. As the event concluded, many participants expressed feelings of isolation and despair but reaffirmed a commitment to continue their efforts for change, inspired by Navalny’s enduring legacy and fortitude. One protester’s remarks poignantly captured the sentiment: “There’s no shame in doing little; what’s shameful is doing nothing,” echoing Navalny’s call for persistent activism even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.
