Latvia blocks 10 more Russian propaganda websites

Latvia’s media regulator has ordered the blocking of a further 10 websites accused of spreading Russian propaganda, citing national security concerns.

The National Electronic Mass Media Council (NEPLP) said the sites justified Russia’s war against Ukraine, glorified the occupation of Ukrainian territory, and provided informational support to Moscow, Caliber.Az reports, citing Latvian media.

Since 2022, Latvia has blocked 413 such websites. Council member Ieva Kalderauska said the largest number of closures came in the first year — 169 sites — followed by 137 in 2024 and 88 so far this year.

“The content varies, but it is mainly articles that appear to explain events but in reality justify the war,” Kalderauska told Latvijas Radio. “Some sites also post calls to join the Russian army and fight in Ukraine.”

The council says the measures are effective, estimating that without restrictions, between 40,000 and 68,000 people in Latvia could view such material each month. Attempts to access blocked sites reach around half a million monthly, often due to repeated tries by the same user.

NEPLP identifies suspect sites through public complaints, alerts from government agencies and its own monitoring. Decisions require legal justification, as blocked outlets can appeal.

IT engineer Elvis Strazdinš said blocking worked because many people consume propaganda only through specific websites, and when those are inaccessible, most do not seek alternatives.

“It’s impossible to stop this content completely — it still spreads through social media and covert advertising — but that’s no reason to do nothing,” he said.

By Aghakazim Guliyev