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Night Wolves Biker Gang Denied Entry in Poland

Poland denies entry in the country for members of the Russian motorcycle gang Night Wolves. We reported on the Night Wolves' intention to stage what was named by them a "commemorative ride" to Berlin, in rememberance of the WWII victory over Nazi German army.
Vladimir Putin and the Night Wolves riders 1 photo
Photo: eng.putin.kremlin.ru
Opposition to the idea became very vocal in local communities in all the countries the ride was supposed to travel through, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Germany. The ride was intented to reach Berlin on the 9th of May, on the 70th anniversary of the Nazi's surrender. However, it looks like Poland is not at all fond to have the ultranationalist Night Wolves passing on Polish soil.

The Night Wolves are very close to the Russiam President Vladimir Putin, and their leader, Alexander Zaldostanov is one of Putin's friends. He also got a medal for his involvement in counteracting the Maidan movement in Ukraine and is on the US and Canadian blacklists.

Polish PM Ewa Kopacz calls the rally a “provocation”, while 12,000 supporters rally up against the Night Wolves' presence

The Polish Prime Minister Ewa Kopacz said that the ride the Night Wolves planned is nothing but a provocation. The official added that the ride looks more likely to "disturb security and put the Polish people in danger of distress."

Members of the Night Wolves say that the recent decision of denying entry in Poland for the riders is a political one and a backlash staged by the US. They say that the good relations they have with the Russian President are also among the reasons for the ban... On a sidenote, this is true, too.

However, the Polish foreign ministry says the paperwork is all wrong and late: "In addition, the Russian side’s notes about the ride came in too late at the Polish [ministry] . . . less than a week before the planned beginning of the tour,” according to the Financial Times.

The Night Wolves say that alternate routes are also being considered, but they have not been mentioned.
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