Mykhailo Kozachenko was among several people who gathered at the monument to show support for Ukraine, according to official sources. When Konygin began his speech, protesters surrounded him with Ukrainian flags and banners, shouted Ukrainian slogans, and played the Ukrainian national anthem. Despite the disruption, Konygin continued his speech. According to NRK Troms og Finnmark, Kozachenko described his presence as a way to counteract Russian propaganda on Norwegian soil. Konygin told NRK that the protest did not disturb him and that he saw attendees as showing gratitude to Soviet soldiers.
The incident adds to tensions at the monument in recent years. In 2023, a dispute arose when Konygin placed a Russian wreath over the municipality's wreath on Liberation Day. Last year, a man displayed a flag of the Wagner paramilitary group at the site. This week, police introduced camera surveillance at the monument to maintain order and prevent violations.
During the ceremony, several Russians attended carrying Russian and Soviet flags. Some expressed regret that the speech was disturbed. The date difference was noted: Russia celebrates Victory Day on May 9, while Norway and many European countries mark liberation on May 8. The monument commemorates Soviet soldiers who liberated Kirkenes from German forces on October 25, 1944.