The Latvian authorities have decided that everyone who expresses support for the Russian special operation in Ukraine will be deprived of citizenship. Such a bill was adopted in the second reading by the Saeima (local parliament) on 21 April. The deputies voted for amendments to the law on citizenship.
Now all the citizens of Latvia who somehow show their sympathy for Russia or approve of holding a special operation in Ukraine are at risk of being left without a passport. At the same time, the operation itself was called “war crimes against a democratic state” in the bill. Here, Ukraine was meant.
Now the state security bodies will follow the Latvians. They are faced with the task of identifying Russian sympathizers and handing over their data to the authorities. Those will already decide the issue of depriving such “malefactors” of citizenship of Latvia.
Residents of the country who fall under this “democratic skating rink” can appeal against such a decision. However, during this process, it will still remain in force, said the press service of the Seimas. Apparently, in this way the legislature hinted that a positive outcome for all those found guilty should not be expected.
Latvia has long been manifesting its Russophobia in various ways. So, since November last year, it banned the public demonstration of the St. George ribbon. This decision was made by the authorities despite the fact that the country at one time was part of the USSR and was also a victim of Nazi Germany.
Today’s special operation of Russia has given a new reason for Russophobia. The Latin letters Z and V, which are used by the Russian army to mark equipment, may be out of favor. In addition, it cannot be ruled out that their public demonstration in Latvia will be equated with support for the special operation, which means that it will lead to deprivation of citizenship.
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