Cars with Ukrainian license plates have been the target of anonymous attacks in Vienna for days. Unknown perpetrators spray-painted the Russian “Z” symbol on Ukrainian vehicles – a well-known symbol of war. Some cars were also scratched. Now the victims are coming out – krone.tv met them in Seestadt.
“Za Pobedo” – “For Victory”: This is what the “Z” symbol of the Russian army stands for. It is also used by supporters of the Russian offensive war in Ukraine – in Russia itself and abroad. Also in Vienna. Last Monday, some families in Vienna’s Seestadt noticed that their car was damaged. In a chat group, they share mobile phone photos of vehicles scratched and sprayed with war propaganda.
Ukrainian refugees ‘not so safe anymore’
Sasha C. (35) and his wife found shelter in Vienna a year ago, the couple has a daughter. After the attack, the family man “didn’t feel so safe” in Austria anymore. Since then he has been thinking about moving to another country. How does he explain all this to his daughter? Sasha: “We try to tell her as little as possible about the war.” Sasha had not thought it possible that the war in Austria would continue.
“Next time they might set fire to our cars”
Oleksandr L. (35) also lives in Seestadt and his car was also the target of a cowardly attack. His way of dealing with the hate: he left notes with messages on other victims and networked. The Ukrainian citizens he has contacted are also shocked. “Next time they might set fire to our cars.” Oleksandr did not tell his family in Kiev about the graffiti, saying she “would only worry unnecessarily.” possible.
A friend of Viktor T. (38) also found scratches on his car a few months ago. Still, the new wave of hatred in Seestadt was “a real shock” for him.
Yuri O. (46) started removing the “Z” symbols on his side doors and hood himself on Monday – with nail polish remover. “Unfortunately, stains remain, the paintwork is damaged. But what should I do?’ Yuri becomes pensive. “I hoped my family could live here in peace. It was incredible for me to see this sign in Vienna. I don’t feel well. Not because of the car, but because of the symbol.”
The police confirm several reports against unknown persons
Within the Ukrainian community, the number of unreported cases is believed to be higher among those affected. “Many do not dare to go to the police,” explains Oleksandr O. “They just don’t want to have any problems.” At the request of “Krone”, the police confirmed the property damage. So far only six people have reported against unknown persons.
The Russian “Z” symbol is not banned in Austria
In parts of Germany and Latvia, using the “Z” symbol in public is already a criminal offense. In Austria, the war sign is not yet included in the Symbols Act. However, should it come to that, it could cost propagandists dearly in the future. Forbidden symbols are punished with a maximum of 4000 euros or a prison sentence of up to one month.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
