Latvia has banned the import of books, clothing, and toys from Russia and Belarus

At an extraordinary session on July 23, the Latvian Parliament approved amendments to the Law “On Support for the Civilian Population of Ukraine,” which impose a ban on the import of certain goods of Russian and Belarusian origin. The decision was supported by 66 members of parliament.

The adopted amendments grant the government the authority to determine a specific list of prohibited products. This list is to include books and periodicals—primarily those in Russian—as well as toys, sporting goods, video games, clothing, and footwear. 

The ban will apply both to direct imports from Russia and Belarus and to the supply of these goods via third countries. However, transit through Latvian territory to other European Union member states will remain permitted.

Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže emphasized that the main goal of the decision is to further reduce economic ties with the aggressor countries. She also noted that Russia actively uses printed materials for propaganda purposes, so the government will implement the prepared restrictions immediately after the law takes effect.

Source: Delfi.

As a reminder, the President of Latvia warned of a possible new escalation by Russia against NATO.

Latvia, together with Ukraine, will build a drone manufacturing plant near the border with Russia.

The Latvian Ministry of Defense will deploy additional air defense systems in the near future to strengthen the protection of the country’s eastern border.

Latvia also intends to continue enhanced border controls along its eastern border.