“Peace, not war”: Berlin protesters demand ceasefire and end to arms supplies

Protesters criticise Germany’s alignment with US policies; call for ceasefire in Gaza, Ukraine and end to conflicts

BERLIN:

Thousands of people gathered in Berlin to protest the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, responding to a call from primarily left-wing groups.

Marching through various parts of the city, they rallied under the slogan, “War, never again – Put down your weapons,” opposing Germany's provision of arms to Ukraine and Israel. Protesters carried banners with messages advocating peace and diplomacy, such as “Peace,” “No to war,” and “Diplomats instead of grenades.”

Sahra Wagenknecht, co-chair of the new left-wing populist party Bundnis Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW), addressed the crowd, emphasising the need for negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin to resolve the conflict in Ukraine. She condemned the perceived double standards of the international community and called for an end to both the war in Ukraine and Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Wagenknecht also criticised Germany’s alignment with US policies and the deployment of American missiles in the country.

Ralf Stegner, a member of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Social Democratic Party (SPD), spoke in defense of Ukraine’s right to self-defense, highlighting the benefits of German-provided air defence systems, but was met with disapproval from the crowd.

The protests come amid ongoing tensions, with Russia’s military operations in Ukraine and Israel’s continued offensive in Gaza, which has resulted in thousands of casualties and widespread displacement.

Protesters demanded a peaceful resolution to both conflicts and denounced Germany’s role in supporting military actions.