Competing demonstrations took place in Berlin on Friday, September 4, over Germany's decision to close the Russian House of Science and Culture on Friedrichstrasse. German authorities linked the closure to an attack at Leipzig airport, which they attributed to Moscow.
Approximately 500 people gathered outside the Russian House to protest its closure. Organizers set up a stage for speakers. The rally was organized by the Left party of Sahra Wagenknecht, the Communist Party of Germany, and the civil society group Society for Russian-German Friendship. Protesters carried signs reading "Stop Russophobic madness" and "Stop aggressive policy toward Russia."
Nearby, approximately 250 people demonstrated in favor of the closure. Participants included representatives from the Green party and pro-Ukraine activists. They erected symbolic boxes intended to represent packing materials, with signs reading "Suitcase, station, Moscow" and "No Kremlin propaganda," referencing the notion that Russian House staff should pack their belongings and leave.
The closure decision by German authorities followed the Leipzig airport incident, which officials attributed to Russian responsibility.