**Latvia Takes Step to Limit Russian Influence: Bans Citizens from Buying Real Estate**
In a move aimed at protecting national security, Latvia’s parliament has adopted a bill that prohibits citizens of Russia and Belarus from purchasing real estate in the country. The ban, which was approved on June 19, also extends to entities that are at least 25% owned by Russian or Belarusian nationals.
This decision is seen as a response to concerns about the potential threat posed by Russia’s aggression in the region. Latvia, which shares borders with both Russia and Estonia, has been strengthening its defense measures and preparing for the worst-case scenario. The country has also imposed entry restrictions on Russian citizens since September 2022.
The bill carves out exceptions for EU and Latvian permanent residence holders, Belarusian refugees, and repatriates. According to Agnese Krasta, an Estonian member of parliament and one of the authors of the initiative, the goal is to limit the influence and presence in Latvia of persons and companies that are adverse to the country.
**Escalating Tensions in Eastern Europe**
The decision comes as tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate. The ongoing war has led to increased civil preparedness measures in countries bordering Russia, including Latvia. NATO intelligence and security agencies have also warned about mounting Russian sabotage operations, including arson attacks believed to be coordinated by Moscow.
Latvia’s move is not isolated; it joins Finland in imposing a ban on Russians from buying property. The Baltic state has been a vocal supporter of Ukraine since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022 and has ranked among Europe’s top defense spenders, allocating over 3% of GDP to defense.
**Global Reaction**
The international community is also taking note of the growing tensions in Eastern Europe. The European Commission has proposed that Ukraine join the European Union’s mobile roaming area starting January 1, 2026, providing Ukrainian users with the ability to make phone calls, texts, and use mobile data in the bloc’s 27 countries at no extra charge.
The United States is also engaged in efforts to increase pressure on Russia. President Volodymyr Zelensky has held talks about deep strikes in Russia, and there are reports of a proposed plan to redirect frozen Russian assets into a special investment fund under EU control.
**Human Cost**
As the conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues, the human cost is becoming increasingly apparent. The latest attacks on Kyiv have left at least 28 people dead and 134 others injured. Fred Grandy, an American artist and volunteer, appears to be the first U.S. civilian killed by a Russian strike on Ukraine.
The victims include 231 women, 134 men, and 19 children. President Zelensky has spoken out against Russia’s actions, calling them “yet another proof of how Russia treats its people with contempt.”
**Global Cooperation**
In an effort to counter Russia’s aggression, countries around the world are coming together. South Africa is considering extradition agreements that would allow for Vladimir Putin to be arrested if he enters the country.
However, despite the growing international pressure on Russia, some leaders are still hesitant to take a firm stance. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has stated that committing to a 5% target in defense spending would be “unreasonable and counterproductive.”
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