The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has officially rejected assertions made by the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service, which claimed that Latvia intends to allow Ukrainian forces to launch airstrikes against Russia from its territory. Spokesperson Georgiy Tikhyy stated that these allegations are unfounded and part of a broader disinformation campaign.
Tikhyy emphasized, “There is no truth in the recent series of false accusations from Moscow regarding preparations for attacks against Russia from Latvian territory. Ukraine does not utilize the territory or airspace of Latvia in its operations against Russia and has no intention of doing so.” He described the claims about drones as a continuation of Kremlin propaganda aimed at destabilizing public opinion in Latvia and the Baltic region.
On the same day, the Russian intelligence agency issued threats towards Latvia, asserting that the locations of decision-making centers within the country are well-known and that NATO membership would not shield Latvia from “just retribution.” The Russian statement accused Latvia of consenting to the launch of Ukrainian drones targeting Russian facilities from its territory.
Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže responded to the Russian claims on social media, stating, “Russia is lying again. This time, the disinformation campaign against Latvia is being carried out by the Foreign Intelligence Service. Fact: Latvia does not provide airspace for attacks on Russia. This has been explained to Russian representatives multiple times.”
Historically, Russian authorities have frequently alleged that Baltic nations permit their airspace to be used by Ukrainian drones attacking targets in Russia. In recent months, several drones have crossed into Baltic airspace, prompting defense ministries in the region to clarify that these were Ukrainian drones that had lost orientation due to Russian electronic warfare measures.
Following incidents in early May where Ukrainian drones entered Latvian airspace, the Latvian Foreign Ministry lodged a protest with Russia, highlighting that Moscow’s aggressive war poses risks of such incidents throughout the region. The presence of drones in Latvian airspace has led to a governmental crisis and the resignation of the Latvian government.
The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has refuted Russian claims that Latvia is allowing Ukrainian airstrikes from its territory. This denial comes amid ongoing tensions and accusations between Russia and Baltic nations regarding drone activity.