Seoul Embassy Banner Forcibly Removed
South Korean authorities have forced the removal of a propaganda banner from the Russian Federation's embassy building in Seoul. The banner, which bore the Russian-language phrase 'Victory will be ours,' sparked public outrage. In response, the Russian diplomatic mission cancelled a public event scheduled for Defender of the Fatherland Day, which was to be held near the embassy on Tuesday. The planned outdoor gathering was moved inside the diplomatic compound.
Following the banner's installation, South Korean civic activists, joined by some Russians, staged a solitary protest in front of the embassy. Hong Jong-sik, head of the civic group 'Hwalbindan,' called for an end to the war, stating:
"Stop Putin. Stop the war." - Hong Jong-sik
International Response to Russian Aggression
Separately, the European Parliament adopted a resolution marking the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The document outlines a strategic European objective, which includes:
- Russia's military defeat;
- Ukraine's victory;
- and its full membership in the EU.
The resolution also urges the EU Council and the European Commission to establish a clear timeline for Ukraine's accession to the European Union, supporting Kyiv's ambition to join the bloc by 2027.
This incident in Seoul is part of a broader global pattern of diplomatic friction and protest against Russia's ongoing war. The forced removal of the banner underscores how nations beyond Europe are taking concrete actions to counter Russian propaganda and show solidarity. These events highlight that international support for Ukraine and opposition to aggression remain a persistent focus for the global community, with even symbolic acts drawing significant official responses.