Zelensky Visit Causes No-Entry Zone and Major Police Operation in Vienna

In connection with the planned visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the Vienna State Police Directorate issued an official area ban around the Presidential Chancellery and the Federal Chancellery on Friday, which will come into effect on June 16 at 9:00 AM. At the same time, a large police presence is planned. A rally by the Ukrainian diaspora and a demonstration against Zelensky's visit are each to take place outside the restricted zone.

Vienna's Heldenplatz Closed During Zelensky's Visit

A specific number of deployed forces will not be disclosed, informed a spokeswoman for the Vienna State Police Directorate upon APA inquiry. "In addition to the deployment unit and special forces such as the police dog unit, WEGA, and EKO Cobra, district forces and the traffic police will also be on duty on Monday," she explained. The Austrian authorities are also in close contact with the security personnel of the state guest.

Demonstrations Outside the Restricted Zone

For Monday, two rallies related to Ukraine are also planned. On the topic of "Support for Ukraine," Mrija, an association of the Ukrainian diaspora, will demonstrate at the Outer Burgtor. Meanwhile, under the title "For Peace, Neutrality, and Sovereignty," opponents of Zelensky's visit will demonstrate at Maria-Theresien-Platz.

Originally, the activists, who particularly demand "Peace. Also with Russia," wanted to demonstrate at Ballhausplatz. However, this area will be within the restricted zone on Monday.

National Library Remains Closed

The presence of the Ukrainian head of state also affects the National Library and the House of Austrian History: The institutions located at Heldenplatz will remain closed all day Monday due to the police area ban, informed the National Library on its homepage.

(APA/Red)

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