Latvia takes drastic measure to kick Russians out of the country

The Latvian parliament voted on Thursday to ban Russian and Belarusian nationals from purchasing property in the country, amid growing concerns over national security.

Since the start of the war in Ukraine in February 2022, Riga has feared it could become Russia’s next target and has taken concrete steps to guard against potential aggression. Over the past three years, Moscow has ramped up its hybrid warfare efforts, including an increase in sabotage activities across Europe.

Under the new legislation, citizens of Russia and Belarus—as well as companies with at least 25% ownership from either country—are prohibited from acquiring real estate in Latvia.

“This is a step to limit the influence and presence in Latvia of persons and companies that are adverse to the country,” said Agnese Krasta, a lawmaker who co-authored the bill.

On the same day, Latvia joined a coalition of Nordic and Baltic states calling for a Schengen-wide ban on Russian nationals who have fought in Ukraine.

Last week, Latvian lawmakers also demanded that Russian and Belarusian citizens obtain security clearance before working in critical infrastructure sectors, such as energy facilities and hospitals.

(QG - Source: Politico - Picture : © Unsplash)