State of the World from NPR cover image

State of the World from NPR

Questions of Loyalty in Latvia

May 27, 2024
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.
08:40

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • 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.

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