Law enforcement authorities planned to be out in force on May 9 in Latvia
Headline: Enhanced Security Measures in Place for May 9 in Latvia Due to Potential Provocations
In light of potential provocations, Latvia has strengthened its security measures ahead of May 9, a day that marks the end of World War II in Europe and the country's complex history.
The State Security Service (VDD) has reported that malicious activities, allegedly orchestrated by Russian special services, are aimed at putting psychological pressure on senior European officials and the public. The purpose, according to the VDD, is to influence decisions in line with Russian interests, including the reduction of support for Ukraine.
To ensure public safety and order, law enforcement authorities are on high alert. State Police Chief Armands Ruks mentioned that they have been working in a reinforced mode since May 9 starts at midnight. This heightened vigilance is particularly noticeable in Uzvaras Park, Salaspils Memorial, and Daugavpils' Dubrovina Park.
Known provocateurs and pro-Kremlin individuals have been identified, and the police are monitoring their activities closely. In addition, the internet environment is being monitored to prevent any online threats.
Ainars Latkovskis, chair of the National Security Committee of the Saeima, has assured that order will be maintained on May 9. Andris Zellis, Deputy Chief of the State Police, echoed this sentiment, stating that the police will monitor and ensure public order not only on May 9, but also the day before and the days after.
In line with this, festive and entertainment events that do not correspond to national security interests, glorify military aggression, falsely reflect historical events, and use pyrotechnics have been banned since May 9 last year. The laying of flowers at dismantled Soviet monuments is also considered as glorifying these objects and military aggression.
Public entertainment, festive events, parades, and pickets aimed at denigrating Latvia's values are not allowed on May 9. No glorification of Russian aggression or war crimes will be tolerated, according to Armands Ruks. Andris Zellis advises against gathering and praising criminal regimes, as it is forbidden and the police reaction will be strict.
The State Security Service has reinforced the protection of Latvia's critical infrastructure in response to these potential provocations. Individual provocations cannot be ruled out, as stated by Minister of the Interior Rihards Kozlovskis.
It is important to note that Latvia, after the German occupation, ended up under Soviet occupation. This complex history has shaped the country's stance towards May 9, with a focus on ensuring public safety and order, and preventing any glorification of Soviet and military aggression symbols.
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