DECEMBER 16, 2024 — Two young men in Bashkiria, Russia were compelled to apologize after unfurling the black-yellow-white flag of the Russian Empire, Telegraf UA reports, in an incident that has sparked controversy and political scrutiny in the region.
The controversy began when a photo circulated online of the individuals holding the Russian Empire flag, which bore the inscription, “We are Russians, God is with us.” The image quickly gained traction on social media and drew backlash from Bashkir nationalists. The individuals were tracked down and identified shortly after the photo’s release, says Russian media Bloknot.ru.
According to Telegram reports, the two men issued a video apology, stating they did not fully understand the flag’s meaning. A new photo showing them with the flag of Bashkortostan was also shared.
However, Russian media outlets have claimed that the apologies were coerced under pressure from Bashkir nationalists.
Life.ru reports that Alexander Bastrykin, Chairman of the Investigative Committee of Russia, directed the Bashkir investigative department to initiate a criminal case, citing the involvement of individuals linked to extremist organizations. The incident has been associated with Ruslan Gabbasov, a Bashkir nationalist and leader of Bashkort, an organization labeled “extremist” by the Russian government.
Pro-Russian figures, including Oleg Tsaryov, a Ukrainian politician supportive of Russian policies, criticized the two men for what they viewed as weakness in apologizing.
Bashkiria, also known as Bashkortostan, was colonized by the Russian Empire in 1557. The region has experienced numerous military uprisings by the Bashkir people and persistent resistance to Russian policies.
In January 2024, mass protests erupted in Bashkortostan following the sentencing of activist Fail Alsinov, who advocated for indigenous rights. The protests resulted in confrontations with police, who deployed tear gas, batons, and made arrests.
Image: Bloknot.ru