Monday, December 15
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Berlin yesterday for economic and peace talks with Friedrich Merz and European heads of government. A US delegation is also in the city, including Steve Witkoff and Donald Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner.
The state visit has caused far-reaching traffic restrictions and closures, especially in the government district. Berlin Police announced on Sunday morning, “We are working today with a large number of emergency forces to prepare for a state visit.” They added, “Because of this, traffic disruptions may occur in the urban area. We ask you to observe short-term closures and thank you for your patience.”
In continuation from yesterday, the Brandenburg Tor S-Bahn is expected to be closed all day, with the S1, S2 and S25 passing through without stopping. Similarly, the U5 will not stop at the Bundestag station. Parts of the 100 and 187 bus lines have also been diverted.
Zelenskyy is subject to the highest security level: 0. This means he is particularly threatened by assassinations and attacks. Therefore, Berlin’s airspace has also undergone security measures. Other actions Berliners might notice in the city centre include the presence of explosive detection dogs, sealed manhole covers, snipers on roofs and water protection police on the Spree.
Berlin Police state that they are ready for high-risk state visits without much time to prepare, with a spokesman for the Berlin Police Union, Benjamin Jendro, saying, “Global politics is done in the capital. The capital police will ensure that the necessary talks can go smoothly, and that the Ukrainian president and all other guests can continue travelling safely.”
