The city of Graz freezes the existing city partnership with the Russian metropolis St. Petersburg. They want to “send a clear signal to official Russia and its political representatives that Graz is the first European human rights city to resolutely reject this war of aggression and the associated breach of international law,” said Mayor Elke Kahr (KPÖ) on Tuesday.
The friendly relations are put on hold “with immediate effect”. The prerequisite for resuming the partnership is that Russia’s aggression against other states comes to an end and steps are taken to restore democracy and freedom of the press Cross made available to provide on-the-spot assistance in Ukraine. At the same time, according to the announcement, Graz is preparing to support people who are looking for refuge in the Styrian capital. Solidarity is also needed by all people in Russia who oppose Putin’s war and are exposed to political persecution for it.
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