Latvia lodges protest with Russia over drones in its skies
Photo: Latvia summoned a representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry (Getty Images)
On May 7, several drones flew from Russian airspace into the territory of Latvia — into the municipalities of Rēzekne, Balvi, and Ludza. The Latvian Foreign Ministry summoned the chargé d'affaires of the Russian embassy and handed over a note of protest, reports the Latvian Foreign Ministry.
What happened
Several drones entered Latvian airspace from the Russian side and flew over the municipalities of Rēzekne, Balvi, and Ludza in the Latgale region. The Latvian Foreign Ministry immediately summoned a Russian embassy representative.
Latvia denies Russian claims
Riga emphasized: Latvia has never granted permission for the use of its airspace to launch drones at targets in Russia.
The drones flew in from Russia, not the other way around — contrary to Moscow's public statements.
Condemnation of threats to Kyiv
Latvia also condemned Russia's public threats to launch a massive strike on Kyiv on May 9, including threats to foreign embassies in the Ukrainian capital.
The Foreign Ministry reiterated its demand to stop the aggression and withdraw Russian troops from all internationally recognized territory of Ukraine.
Earlier, information emerged that Russia is preparing total communication restrictions for the May holidays due to fears of strikes on the Kremlin. Moscow planned to shut down the internet, block ATMs, and completely close the sky to civil aviation.
Meanwhile, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico became the first leader of an EU country to openly declare his intention to visit Moscow for the May 9 parade after the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Due to sanctions and the closed airspace of neighboring countries, the logistics of his trip have become significantly more complicated.
Poland and Czechia have repeatedly criticized Slovakia's foreign policy for its pro-Russian rhetoric and the cessation of military aid to Kyiv. Warsaw stated that it would change its attitude towards Fico's actions only after he helps unblock aid for Ukraine.
