Since February 24, German authorities have opened more than 140 cases for approving Russia's war against Ukraine. Most of the open cases concern the use of the letter "Z", a symbol of support for the Russian invasion, Zeit reported.
In several federal states, including Lower Saxony, Bavaria and Berlin, the public use of the sign is punishable by law. According to Article 140 of the German Criminal Code, those who encourage or otherwise approve (publicly at a meeting or by distribution of written materials) illegal actions are subject to a fine or imprisonment up to three years.
According to the newspaper, in North Rhine-Westphalia 37 cases were opened, in Hamburg - at least 17, in Saxony-Anhalt - at least 19.
It should be noted that the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine also banned the use of Russian neo-Nazi symbols "Z," "V," and recognized Russia as a terrorist state.