Latvia minister calls for end to Russian-language content in state media

Latvia’s culture minister has called for the complete removal of Russian-language content from state-funded media, arguing that it has no place in the country’s public information space under current conditions.

Nauris Puntulis said Russian-language content “must disappear” entirely, according to remarks reported by the Latvian public broadcaster’s portal LSM. He framed the issue as one of national policy, stating that an “independent European national state” has no justification for maintaining such content, particularly “in the current military situation.”

“Content still exists, and we have no grounds for the existence of content in the Russian language in an independent European national state. Especially in the current military situation. What does it mean that it has become less? It must disappear completely, that’s all,” Puntulis said.

The minister indicated that the policy is not aimed at reducing Russian-language output but eliminating it altogether from public media platforms.

Earlier, Puntulis issued a directive requiring institutions under the Ministry of Culture to cease using Russian in the public domain. The order mandates compliance with state language regulations and prohibits the use of Russian in the execution of official functions.

The restrictions apply to a broad range of activities, including international events, advertising and official websites. Affected institutions have been instructed to implement the changes by July 30.

By Tamilla Hasanova