Russian intelligence operations remain the most serious threat to Latvian national security, according to the latest report by the country’s Defence Intelligence and Security Service. The report warns that Russian operatives could be posing as ordinary tourists in forests and remote areas while actually conducting espionage or sabotage missions on behalf of the Kremlin.
Latvian intelligence officials have urged the public to remain vigilant and provided guidance on how to identify suspicious individuals. They advise looking out for people with unkempt appearances, mismatched military or sports clothing, and those carrying items such as detailed maps, advanced radios, or specialised medical kits that are more suited to covert operations than casual hikes.
Officials warn that such individuals may also be seen near military bases, critical infrastructure, or other sensitive locations. In some cases, they may pretend to be humanitarian workers or lost hikers, while gathering information or trying to provoke unrest among the population. There is concern that some Russian agents could be attempting to incite protests or target key figures in Latvian society.
The Latvian security services stress that not all spies will appear suspicious at first glance. Drawing on the experience of Ukrainian defence forces, the agency cautioned that Russian agents can easily blend into local communities and adapt their behaviour to avoid detection. They have called on citizens not to confront suspected individuals directly but instead report concerns to the State Police, national security agencies, or the nearest armed forces unit.
This warning comes as Western countries intensify scrutiny of Russian covert activities across Europe. In a recent case in the United Kingdom, the head of a Russian spy network was sentenced to nearly eleven years in prison, while five of his associates received a total of forty years for conducting surveillance on behalf of the Kremlin.
Meanwhile, the United States Embassy in Moldova is offering a reward of ten million US dollars (about £7.9 million GBP) for information on members of Russia’s GRU military intelligence service.
