German police have deployed an additional 3,400 officers in preparation for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit.
Police on Tuesday said they have implemented extensive security measures for the Ukrainian President and other high-ranking guests attending a conference in Berlin.
“Approximately 3,400 additional police officers are on duty for the two events. Support has come from nearly all over Germany. Drivers in the capital should expect traffic jams and delays,’’ the police said.
Parts of the government district have been cordoned off, with armed police officers stationed at barriers since the morning. Police special operations units have been deployed with snipers.
There are also road closures in the west of the city, including near the famous Ku’damm avenue.
Trains are not stopping at the underground station that serves the lower house of parliament, the Bundestag.
Parts of the Spree River in the government district, as well as the airspace over Berlin, have also been temporarily closed.
Zelensky’s visit, which has one of the highest security classifications, had not been announced in advance.
On Monday, the police only mentioned that several state guests were expected to attend the Berlin Security Conference taking place at the same time.
The conference includes representatives of the defence industry, military experts and scientists.
They are discussing military threats and the current security situation. More than 140 speakers are scheduled to appear on various panels. (dpa/NAN)
