Latvia has banned the import and distribution of books from Russia and Belarus, invoking "war propaganda" laws. The measure comes as part of a broader strategy by the country to halt Moscow's influence on its territory.
The Baltic country, an ally of Ukraine, faces what it calls "hybrid attacks" from Moscow since the start of the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. These actions include disinformation campaigns, attempts at destabilization, and other forms of pressure that go beyond conventional military conflict.
The ban covers printed and digital books from both countries, justified by Latvian authorities as necessary to protect society from narratives that may justify or promote war. Authorities state that the measure is proportional to the identified risk.
This decision is part of a broader set of sanctions and restrictions adopted by Latvia against Russia and Belarus since the start of the conflict in Ukraine, reflecting the country's firm position in condemning the Russian invasion.
