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Chaotic scenes at the Cologne court: The pro-Russian activist Elena Kolbasnikova (48) was sentenced to a fine of 900 euros on Tuesday. While still in court, there was a scuffle and several provocations. The judiciary had to intervene, reports the “Berliner Zeitung”.
The Ukrainian, who lives in Germany, is said to have approved of Putin’s Russian offensive war in Ukraine in an interview with Bild TV in 2022. The interview took place during a pro-Russian demonstration co-organized by Kolbasnikova. There she claimed that Putin is not an aggressor, but rather helps to end the war in Ukraine.
Proponents and opponents fought against each other
The court justified its judgment with the fact that during the meeting Kolbasnikova had approved Russia’s war of aggression, which constitutes a crime of aggression under international criminal law. In this way she disturbed the public peace.
An hour before the start of the hearing, the supporters of the 48-year-old appeared in court. There they met their opponents. There were strong verbal fights and mutual provocations between the camps. There would have been a minor scuffle.
Freedom of expression not unlimited
Kolbasnikova is convinced of her innocence. She wanted to continue and was willing to be punished for “liberating Ukraine from the Nazis,” she told the court. The defense of the Russian pleaded for an acquittal. The lawyer spoke of a “dark hour of freedom of expression”. Your statement falls under the right to freedom of expression.
In a press release, the court of Cologne writes that the statements are punishable despite freedom of expression, as this does not apply indefinitely. The fact that the suspect had no previous convictions was mitigating. The native Ukrainian wants to appeal and continue the verdict. It’s not final yet. (A)
Source: Blick
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
