Introduction
Foreign Minister Baiba Braže of Latvia is urging European Union member countries to halt visa issuance for Russian and Belarusian nationals. In particular, Braže indicated the rise in security threats across the bloc as the reason behind her call. Moreover, the move comes amid Russia’s growing aggression beyond Ukraine’s borders.
Latvia Entry Rules: A Background
Since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Latvia has tightened entry rules for Russian and Belarusian citizens. Notably, in September 2022, Latvia joined Lithuania, Estonia, and Poland in restricting entry for Russian Schengen visa holders.
Overall, these measures aimed to curb potential threats posed by travelers from these nations.
A Moral Duty for Latvia
Last week, Minister Braže revealed a 25% increase in Schengen visas issued to Russian nationals in 2024 compared to 2023. Consequently, she warned that this surge could undermine regional security. Morevoer, she emphasized that hybrid threats, including espionage and cyberattacks, remain high.
Meanwhile, Latvia Interior Minister Rihards Kozlovskis stressed that suspending visas is a moral duty. Therefore, he urged EU countries to act decisively.
“We have to recognise that we are in a hybrid war,” Kozlovskis remarked earlier at an EU Justice and Home Affairs Council meeting in March.
“I therefore call on all Member States to take the threat seriously,” he added. “It is our moral duty to deny such a service.”
New Entry Requirements into Latvia
Starting September 1, 2025, Latvia will enforce stricter entry requirements on citizens of non-EU, non-NATO, and non-OECD countries. Correspondingly, this applies to Russian and Belarusian citizens.
In particular, travelers must submit detailed personal and travel information 48 hours before arrival. This includes their travel purpose, itinerary, and any relatives in government or military roles.
Latvia broadcaster LSM has clarified that travelers with a Latvia-issued valid visa or residence permit are exempt from this.
Notably, those who fail to comply risk fines of up to €2,000. Overall, these measures aim to close security gaps.
At the moment, the Latvia government has not yet published the full text of the new travel rule. They will also need to note whether it applies only to those entering Latvia’s external borders or via other EU countries.
Broader EU Context
While some EU nations like Latvia support tighter restrictions, others continue issuing visas. As a result, this inconsistency undermines the EU’s collective security stance.
Furthermore, concerns persist that Russian or Belarusian nationals might misuse Schengen visas for intelligence-gathering or illegal activities. This aligns with recent reports highlighting Russian espionage efforts across Europe.
Richard Moore, head of MI6, UK’s foreign intelligence agency, said that Russia was on a “mission to generate mayhem.” Moore also confirmed a “staggeringly reckless campaign of Russian sabotage in Europe.
“They will continue to engage in espionage, they will continue to engage in strategic planning and operations in order to be successful at gaining the [intelligence] that they absolutely need,” added Dr. Dennis Desmond, a former US Defense Intelligence Agency special agent.
Hence, Latvia and its call for uniform action gains urgency.
Conclusion
Latvia and its demand for an EU-wide halt on visas for Russians and Belarusians underscores growing concerns over regional security. As hybrid threats escalate, a coordinated EU response could prove vital.
Minister Braže’s appeal urges the bloc to stand united in addressing potential risks. Thus, the position of Latvia highlights the need for decisive action to protect European citizens.
Photo by Ivars Utināns on Unsplash
