Latvia Extends Entry Restrictions On Russian Citizens Until 2025

• Latvia extends ban on Russian citizens until March 4, 2025.

• Ban excludes residents with valid permits and humanitarian cases.

• Collaboration with Poland, Estonia, and Lithuania to limit Russian entry.

A view of Riga, Latvia, Sept. 5, 2023. Latvia's government has extended restrictions on the entry of Russian citizens into the Baltic country until next year, citing Moscow's full-scale invasion of Uk

AP

Latvia's government has announced the extension of restrictions on the entry of Russian citizens into the country until March 4, 2025. This decision comes in response to Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which officials believe continues to pose a threat to the internal security of Latvia.

According to a statement released by the Cabinet of Prime Minister Evika Silina, Russian citizens will remain prohibited from entering Latvia for tourism and leisure purposes. However, certain exceptions will be made for individuals with valid residence permits in Latvia or another EU member state, as well as those entering for humanitarian reasons such as political dissidents.

In collaboration with Poland and the Baltic states of Estonia and Lithuania, Latvia has implemented measures to limit the number of Russian citizens entering the country due to perceived security risks associated with Russia's actions in Ukraine.

As a NATO member state with a significant ethnic Russian minority constituting approximately 25% of its population, Latvia has taken steps to safeguard its borders and internal security amidst the ongoing conflict in the region. The Baltic nation, known for its tourism appeal, particularly in the capital city of Riga, has historically attracted Russian visitors for vacations and weekend getaways.

For the latest updates on the situation, please visit the AP's dedicated coverage of the war between Russia and Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine.