Ukrainian Protesters Clash with Russian Envoy over WWII Tribute on French Island

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A group of around 30 pro-Ukraine demonstrators on Monday protested a visit to the Oleron island cemetery in western France by Russia's ambassador to Paris, Alexei Meshkov. Meshkov paid tribute to four Soviet nationals who fought alongside the French during World War II, but his visit was met with opposition as Russia's war against Ukraine enters its fourth year. The ambassador laid flowers at the graves of the four Soviet nationals, who were enlisted by the German occupation army and later joined French resistance fighters to liberate Oleron in April 1945. However, the protesters argued that the Soviet nationals were, in fact, Ukrainian, and that Russia's actions in Ukraine were a major concern. Local officials expressed their opposition to the ambassador's visit, with Michel Parent, the head of the local federation of municipalities, stating that the monument had been restored by Russian authorities and that he saw no problem with people paying their respects to the Russian soldiers. However, he also expressed his disapproval of Russia's aggression against Ukraine. Olga Gaillard-Bazilesko, head of the local association Oleron for Ukraine, was more vocal in her opposition, stating that the Russian ambassador had no business visiting the island and that Russia's actions were a threat to European security. Meshkov, however, dismissed the protest, saying that the memory of those who liberated the island must be respected. The controversy surrounding the ambassador's visit highlights the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the complex history of World War II and the relationships between the countries involved. The incident also raises questions about the role of Russia in Europe and its actions in Ukraine.