On 15 April, a public protest took place in the centre of Prague in front of the so-called Russian Culture House. Dozens of activists with Ukrainian flags gathered to oppose the spread of Russian culture and demand justice for the confiscation of Russian property and the use of these funds to help Ukraine. Slogans that have become symbols of the struggle were heard everywhere: “Russia is a terrorist state” and #MakeRussiaPay.

The protest was organized by our friends and partners the Czech-Ukrainian initiative Hlas Ukrajiny, led by co-coordinator Anastasiia Sihnaievska.

Anastasiia Sihnaievska emphasized that the so-called cultural institution “Russian House” is subordinated to a Russian agency that is under sanctions, yet it continues to operate freely in the centre of Prague. This institution has nothing to do with culture and is rather an instrument of influence for the aggressor country.

The “Russian House” is controlled by the federal agency “Rossotrudnichestvo,” which is on the sanctions lists of the EU, USA, and other countries. Yet, it continues to operate freely in the center of the capital… Why?

Anastasiia Sihnaievska, co-coordinator Hlas Ukrajiny

Among the protesters was Oleg Symoroz, a war veteran from Ukraine, who, in his speech, thanked the Czech government for its support. However, he emphasized that the continued operation of the “Russian House” in the heart of Prague is illogical and unacceptable, especially at a time when Russia is waging a genocidal war against Ukraine.

This protest became part of the international campaign #MakeRussiaPay, which calls for the fair confiscation of frozen Russian assets and their redirection to the reconstruction of Ukraine. We thank everyone who joined the protest and supported this initiative!