Twenty minutes, including press statements. This is the time spent by the Russian ambassador to France, Alexei Meshkov, in the cemetery alleys of Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron (Charente-Maritime). As part of a controversial and “purely humanitarian visit”, the diplomat came to celebrate the memory of four Soviet soldiers who died on the island of Oléron during the Second World War. Forced by German soldiers on the Eastern Front, these four men landed – like some sixty other Soviet soldiers – at Oléron and participated in the construction of the Atlantic Wall.
Some of them were quick to help and provide information to the Resistance. The four men buried in Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron even carried out a brilliant coup such as the destruction of a large ammunition and artillery depot. They paid with their lives before being buried under two steles depicting a red star, sickle and hammer.
“The grave is in a dilapidated state”
Based on information last year by the amateur historian from Oléron, Philippe Lafon, the Russian embassy decided to renovate these two steles at its own expense, without making the slightest official approach to public authorities. According to our information, this is a city concession. The bill amount: almost 2,000 euros, according to Philippe Lafon who “sent his estimate” to Russia. Therefore, they intended to recover their change by moving to Oléron.
Opposing this visit in light of the war in Ukraine, around fifty demonstrators attempted to make themselves heard peacefully. They were thrown out of the cemetery entrance – their signs and flags were confiscated by the police.
In the presence of about twenty Russian officials and in a guarded empty grave, Alexei Meshkov was able to express his “gratitude to these heroes after their exploits and dedication.” In addition, the diplomat also justified Russia’s methods: “These cemeteries belong to Humanity. It is unbearable to see the cemeteries in such a dilapidated state. »
Protesters denounced “propaganda actions” intended to “restore Russia’s image.” Ukrainian and president of the Oléron association for Ukraine, Olga Gaillard-Bazylenko was present, a yellow and blue ribbon pinned to her coat. “Seeing representatives of the aggressor country in France here is a scandal. Why come here? It is provocative,” he assured. “This is an insult to Ukrainian refugees,” added Thyde Rosell, from Oléro. The island is currently home to around twenty Ukrainian citizens since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
