Nationalists, Antifascists Clash In St. Petersburg
Right-wing ultrantionalists exchanged punches with the antifascist protesters.
November 06, 2009
ST. PETERSBURG -- Ultranationalist and antifascist protesters have clashed in St. Petersburg, RFE/RL's Russian Service reports.
Ultranationalist organizations such as the Slav Union, the Movement Against Illegal Immigration, the Resistance Movement, and other groups held a so-called "Right Meeting" on the outskirts of St. Petersburg on November 4, the Day of Russian Unity.
Local antifascist activists came to the gathering with signs declaring "Down with fascism," "Nationalism into the dumpster," and other slogans.
The ultranationalists then attacked the antifascist demonstrators and police got involved to stop the fighting. Four people were detained by police. No serious injuries were reported.
Rights activist Yuly Rybakov told RFE/RL that the conflict between ultranationalists and antifascists has escalated in Russia in recent years and can be considered a war.