Pro-Russian Activists Expelled: A 20-Year Ban from Germany

German authorities have banned pro-Russian activists, Elena Kolbasnikova and Max Schlund, from re-entering the country for 20 years. Investigations revealed their ties with the Kremlin, and they have since relocated to Russia, alleging discrimination and citing a campaign of 'Russophobia' against them.

German authorities have imposed a 20-year ban on re-entry for two pro-Russian activists following revelations of their Kremlin ties, uncovered by a Reuters investigation last year.

Elena Kolbasnikova and Max Schlund, who have been organizing pro-Kremlin rallies in Germany, relocated to Russia, asserting they had been forced out by discrimination. Their lawyer disclosed that they received a letter from the Cologne city administration labeling them a security threat.

Despite the activists' claims of facing 'Russophobia,' the Cologne prosecutor's office has refused to comment on the case, while the city administration remains quiet on the decision.

(With inputs from agencies.)