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Latvia’s State Security Service (VDD) urged the prosecutor’s office to initiate criminal proceedings against a long-time Russian ethnic policy activist for violating European Union (EU) sanctions by providing content to a Russian propaganda outlet. Latvian Television reports the individual in question is pro-Kremlin activist Viktors Guščins.

Criminal proceedings against the Latvian citizen were initiated on November 26, 2025, after the State Security Service (VDD) discovered publications created by the individual on a Russian propaganda website operated by a foundation included on the EU’s list of international sanctions. His posts contained messages glorifying Russia, including interpretations of the occupation of Latvia and other events of World War II in line with Russian interests.

Access to this specific Russian propaganda resource within Latvian territory has been blocked based on a recommendation from the State Security Service (VDD).

The VDD has urged the Prosecutor’s Office to bring criminal charges against the individual for the criminal offence specified in the first part of Article 84 of the Criminal Law, i.e., for violating EU sanctions. The VDD emphasises that providing any resources to an entity subject to EU sanctions is considered a violation of EU sanctions.

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