May 9: Ghost Brigade Commander Alexei Mozgovoi entered into an open confrontation with the authorities of the Lugansk People’s Republic (LC), saying he was threatened with death or arrest over holding a Victory Day Parade in Alchevsk May 9 inconsistent with the government of the republic.
“Within half an hour came two ‘courtesy’ offers — arrest or complete destruction … If I did not refuse to conduct the military parade in the city of Alchevsk or hold an event absolutely necessary for the future of Novorossiya — a forum of solidarity of the people of Novorossiya and Europe,” said Mozgovoi.
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| Ghost Brigade Commander Alexei Mozgovoi |
He characterized the situation in the LC as follows:
“There is a dictatorship. But it is not the military, and not the proletariat. The dictatorship of the old directors … And don’t let the representatives of the APU [Ukrainian Armed Forces] gloat, because they have the same pattern. A year ago, many of them sincerely believed in the destruction of the oligarchic power and the return to the people of their dignity. Instead, some other thieves have come — more bloodthirsty. Something almost analogous has been carried out on our territory. Anyone who rose here, stood up for justice and the rule of the people! In the end, their side and ours got the same thing — murder. We are killing ourselves,” said the outraged Mozgovoi.
“After today’s conversation with certain individuals, the Alchevsk parade dedicated to Victory Day will not happen — not because I worry for myself … I have a lot of innocent people nearby. And each life preserved — this is the best reward. I apologize to all those who waited for the parade,” said the brigade commander.
Red Star News + Translations 