Explore the loyalty challenges faced by Russian-speaking population in Latvia amidst Russia's war in Ukraine. Learn about the unjust treatment and bureaucratic hurdles elderly residents like Rima Ilina face. Discover the changing attitudes towards Putin in Latvia and bid farewell to NPR's international correspondent Philip Reeves.
Latvia's Russian-speaking residents face challenges proving loyalty due to new residency rules amid Russian-Ukrainian conflict.
The situation in Latvia reflects a history of Soviet occupation, highlighting ongoing integration and identity struggles in the region.
Deep dives
Impact of Russia's conflict in Ukraine on Baltic nations
The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has created repercussions that extend beyond the battlefield, causing rifts among people in various parts of Europe. In Latvia, where over a third of the population speaks Russian, residents are feeling the effects of Russian aggression, leading to challenges in proving loyalty to Latvia or facing the possibility of leaving. The situation highlights the struggles faced by individuals like Margolito Chevedevre, who, despite living in Latvia for decades, now find themselves under scrutiny to demonstrate their allegiance amidst the geopolitical tensions.
Struggles faced by Russian-speaking residents in Latvia
Russian-speaking residents in Latvia, such as Olga Pekkiewicz, a journalist and social activist, have encountered difficulties navigating new residency rules and language requirements introduced by the Latvian government. Individuals like Rima Ilina, a 72-year-old widow, are struggling to meet the language criteria and fear possible expulsion from the country. The measures implemented by Latvia reflect a complex history of Soviet occupation and strained relations with the Russian-speaking minority, demonstrating the ongoing challenges of integration and identity in the region.
Russia's war in Ukraine is deepening divisions across Europe. One example is the Baltic nation of Latvia, formerly part of the Soviet Union. One third of those living in Latvia are Russian speaking and now some elderly residents, who may have lived there for decades, are being forced to prove their loyalty or leave.