Latvia bans Russians and Belarusians from buying property

The regulation was justified with the hybrid war that Russia is waging in parallel to the war in Ukraine against other democratic and sovereign states that are supporting Kiev in its defensive struggle.

The indirect acquisition of real estate in other countries is therefore an instrument of Russia's non-military influence and an element of hybrid warfare. Russia has also used the presence of its citizens abroad as a pretext for war and justified military actions with the protection of its citizens, according to the parliamentary statement.

Latvia, which borders Russia and Belarus to the east, is home to a large minority of Russian origin. Due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine more than three years ago, the Baltic state also sees itself threatened by Russia. In response, the government in Riga has already largely suspended the issuing of visas and residence permits to Russians.