This ominous graffiti greeted tourists on Saturday at Dark Hedges in Co Antrim – one of famous in Northern Ireland beauty spots.
Isitors walked around the pro-Russian daub on Earth below majestic trees that are now legendary world.
graffiti written in the big words “Z glory of Russia” refer to the Z symbol drawn on Russian tanks during Ukraine invasion.
But there is already there was widespread condemnation with police confirm they are aware of This is.
John McGrillen, CEO of Tourism in Northern Ireland has been taken aback by the vandalism.
“In Northern Ireland we are known for warmly of welcome, that’s what the tourists tell us and this guy of activity flies in in face of all we stand for, especially at a time when we salute the victims of Russian aggression in Ukraine to our communities and homes,” he said.
That view supported by local politicians.
Mervyn Storey of DUP said, “What can you say about someone who would write this, glorify the country that is involved in mass genocide? It is shameful, disgusting, contemptible.
“More importantly, it’s an insult to everyone people of Ukraine. like someone who greeted this week people from Ukraine and heard from them first what Russia has done is very sad that someone writes such things.
“It’s a senseless act of vandalism in one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic city location. This is completely contrary with warm welcome our local community provide tourists from all over in world who come see what Dark Hedges and the North Coast have to offer.
“This week I was happy to welcome refugees from Ukraine to my church. community. It’s humiliating that they should have to deal with this guy of behavior that glorifies despotic campaign of terror in their homeland. Our support should be with in people of Ukraine.
“I will work closely with local governments and PSNI ensure this is graffiti removed immediately and those responsible held accountable.”
Richard Holmes, mayor of UUP of Causeway Coast and Glens called it “crazy”.
“Anti-social behavior like this is not welcome anywhere, but take out in the country area make statements like this is ridiculous,” he said. added.
