A row has erupted over Berlin’s decision not to illuminate the Brandenburg Gate in the colours of the Russian flag following the deadly subway bombing in St. Petersburg on Monday.
Critics accuse Berlin of being indifferent to the deaths of Russians, noting that the city’s iconic monument was bathed in the colours of other countries following attacks in London, Paris, Brussels and Istanbul.
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Berlin authorities say those four places are Berlin’s official partner cities, but acknowledge that exceptions have been made. The gate was lit up with the relevant colours after attacks in Jerusalem and Orlando, Florida, for example.
Klaus Lederer, Berlin’s top cultural official, called Tuesday for an end to the practice to prevent debates about the issue in future. He says that until then, Russia’s national colours should be projected on the gate.
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