MOSCOW, May 7 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused Europe Wednesday of turning a blind eye to the rebirth of fascist ideology, calling the events in Ukraine live fascism.

"For years, Europe has closed its eyes to the fact that this (fascist) ideology is gaining new backers, its supporters are enlisting new followers, holding marches in honor of former SS individuals who were convicted as criminals by the Nurnberg Tribunal," Lavrov said at a flower laying ceremony for Victory Day, which marks victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.

He said not only were there marches to whitewash Nazism, but "live fascism" had already erupted.

"What happened in Odessa on May 2 is clear fascism," the RIA Novosti news agency quoted him as saying.

The diplomat said Russia would not allow the facts "to be swept under the rug," vowing to push for all the evidence to be made public.

At least 46 people were killed and more than 170 others injured in clashes between pro- and anti-government protesters in the Black Sea city of Odessa. Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of inciting the conflicts.

Russia will mark the 69th Victory Day anniversary, a traditional day for displaying military deterrence and enhancing solidarity, on May 9.