On 30 May 2025, Latvian State Security Service (VDD) asked the Prosecution Office to initiate criminal prosecution against a well-known and long-standing pro-Kremlin activist for providing assistance to Russia in actions directed against Latvia, as well as provoking hatred against the Latvian people.
On 13 February 2025, VDD detained the activist in relation to comments aimed against the national security of Latvia that were made during a public discussion in Moscow. This discussion was dedicated to the dissemination of Russian propaganda narratives regarding alleged "ethnocide of Russian compatriots" in the Baltic States. It was organised on 4 February in Moscow by the pro-Kremlin organisation "Institute of CIS Countries". Several participants from Latvia also joined this discussion.
During the discussion, the detained pro-Kremlin activist called to harm the national security of Latvia. In addition, the activist also expressed support to Russia’s aggressive war against Ukraine. After evaluating the activist’s statements, VDD incriminated the person for the crimes stipulated in Section 811 and Section 78 of the Criminal Law, namely, for assisting a foreign state in action directed against the Republic of Latvia, and for triggering national hatred and enmity.
The pro-Kremlin activist remains under arrest as a security measure. Meanwhile, other individuals from Latvia who participated in the discussion in Moscow are still under investigation.
VDD reiterates that no person shall be considered guilty until the guilt of such person has been determined in accordance with the procedures laid down in law.
Information prepared by VDD
Photo by VDD
