DOD-sponsored personnel are highly encouraged to avoid the Cologne area Saturday, April 22 and Sunday, April 23 due to a large scheduled demonstration. Approximately 50,000 demonstrators will be protesting against the Alternative for Germany Federal Party (AfD) convention at the Hotel Maritim. More than 4,000 local law enforcement agents will be present at this two-day event.

Due to past skirmishes between AfD party members and protestors, the Polizei are acknowledging a likely potential for violence to erupt. Barricades will be in place around the Hotel Maritim, and the Rhein Ufter Tunnel and Dützer Brücke will be closed to traffic.