Footage on the Telegram social networking platform shows more than a dozen cars flying Russian flags and many also carrying the Z symbol, the symbol of support for Russian troops in Ukraine, passing through Dublin. It is understood that the riders left the Maldron Hotel near Dublin Airport at 14:00 on Sunday and the video shows them proceeding to the roundabout of the airport. The cars were then parked at Metropoint Business Park in nearby Swords for a while. A video shows a woman holding what appears to be a pistol or an imitation weapon. One of the people who posted a video of the incident claimed that the rider then traveled to Co Cavan, but this could not be confirmed immediately. Among the vehicles depicted is a Land Rover Defender with the letter “Z” painted on the hood. Footage of the escort also appeared on TikTok yesterday with a photo claiming to show 25 of those involved holding Russian and Irish flags. The incident was criticized by the Ukrainian embassy, which wrote on Twitter: “It is absolutely disgusting that these Russians living in (Ireland) show their complete disrespect for their country of residence and the Irish people who are resisting the Russian war in Ukraine. . “The Z, the symbol of murder and horror, must be banned by law in every democratic state.” A further “self-parade” in Ireland in support of the Russian invasion is scheduled for May 7, starting at the Maldron Hotel. This is probably in honor of May 9, when the Russians traditionally celebrate victory over the Nazis in World War II. A statement on a closed Facebook page with a picture of Soviet hammer and sickle symbols said: “Remember, proud, never forget. Car parade in honor of May 9 wi [SIC]will take place on 07.05.22, departure from Maldron Hotel (airport) at 10.30 p.m. Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to hold a victory parade on May 9 in Moscow.
