Russia starts criminal proceedings over laws in Latvia on removal of Soviet monuments

Russian law enforcers have commenced criminal proceedings and investigations over the execution of the Law on the Prohibition of The Display of Objects Glorifying the Soviet and Nazi Regimes and their Dismantling in the Territory of the Republic of Latvia. This means there is a risk operations of Russian Investigative Committees could cause risks for officials involved in decision-making processes, especially during travel outside of Latvia’s borders, as reported by Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The ministry reports it has informed Russia that its attempts to apply extraterritorial criminal jurisdiction are considered interference with Latvia’s domestic affairs and are in breach of statutes of the United Nations (UN).
Latvia categorically objects to Russia attempting to realise its national criminal jurisdiction within territories of other countries. Russian legislative acts are not binding to Latvia as a sovereign and independent country, the ministry stresses.

The ministry also mentions that the steps Latvia has taken in this direction are in line with Latvia’s international commitments and existing international situation.

At the same time, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs invites officials who participated in the aforementioned topic, including those whoa re no longer in office, to carefully consider potential trips outside of the EU and NATO member states.
The ministry recommends for officials planning to visit some country, including for transit purposes, to consider that country’s relations and legal ties with Russia, as well as the level of human rights protection there.
If it is absolutely necessary to travel outside of Latvia, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends registering with the Consular Register on latvija.lv portal, read through the travel warning prepared by the ministry and check if the destination country has any Latvian consular office or embassy.