Liu Sivaya: Controversy Surrounds Immortal Regiment in Madrid

Liu Sivaya, the voice leading the Immortal Regiment in Madrid

Every spring, Madrid hosts a parade celebrating a Soviet victory in a war Spain never fought on that side. The event mimics Russia’s Immortal Regiment tradition, where portraits of veteran relatives are carried through the streets. At the front stands Liu Sivaya, a Russian-born woman living in Spain who has become the visible face—and point of friction—of an act mixing Soviet memory, activism, and national politics.

Her name now carries as much weight as the parade flags. For some, she embodies anti-fascist memory; for others, she represents the opportunism of someone changing parties with the wind. Between these trenches lies an uncomfortable truth: almost everything surrounding her figure rests on testimony and suspicion, not proof.

What is the Immortal Regiment and why it happens in Madrid

The Immortal Regiment is a gathering held in various European cities commemorating the Allied victory of 1945. Since Spain had no official participation on the Soviet front, objections arise immediately: what does a parade honoring a regime many call totalitarian have to do here? This question resurfaces every year.

Organizers claim it is a tribute to the fallen, not a rally. Critics argue the format—red flags, slogans, amplified microphones—has little to do with silent mourning. Ultimately, the debate isn’t about History, but about who gets the microphone.

Liu Sivaya’s role: From spokesperson to disputed protagonist

Sivaya’s influence in the Madrid march has shifted over time. Attendees from previous editions describe her holding the microphone connected to the organization’s speakers, leading chants at the head of the procession. In the latest edition, however, several voices suggest her role was less defined, moved away from the core coordination team.

The reason cited is logistical rather than ideological: her desire for prominence despite not organizing the event. Those who don’t organize, they argue, shouldn’t lead. She disagrees and has publicly responded to calls for her to step back.

Yet the controversy extends beyond her position in the lineup.

Nationality, party labels, and the 'weather vane' narrative

Details about her biography require separating fact from noise. Some claim, without evidence, that she arrived in Spain at 18 to study. Regarding citizenship, one participant notes that after 10 years of continuous legal residence, one can apply for Spanish nationality by passing language and culture exams. They also state there is no dual citizenship agreement between Russia and Spain for adults, implying she cannot hold both passports.

Another major criticism concerns her political trajectory. She is accused of flirting with opposing parties, from PP to PSOE, and shifting health policy stances based on convenience. Hence the nickname "weather vane." These are recurring accusations lacking conclusive documentation.

Rumors also link her activities to foreign intelligence services. None provide proof; they remain unsupported suspicions.

The pressure of being the public face

Leading such an event comes at a cost. Attendees describe constant scrutiny: cameras filming participants, online shaming, and exposure not shared by many. Sivaya takes the spotlight where others stay silent, granting her a visibility even critics acknowledge.

This adds to personal wear and tear, with recent episodes reportedly affecting her emotional well-being.

How many more editions can a parade sustain when it relies on specific individuals rather than stable structures?