Latvia to check Russians living in country for reliability

Latvia will check for reliability all Russians living in the country on a permanent or temporary basis, Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkēvičs said.

The minister admits that according to the results of checks, some Russians may not be able to renew their residence permits in Latvia, Delfi reports.   

“We will reduce, not prolong residence permits that were obtained through investments, as well as under other programs,” Rinkēvičs said.

In addition, Russian citizens will be asked to answer the questions “Whose Crimea?” and “What is going on in Ukraine?” to clarify their political views and attitude towards the special military operation in Ukraine. The answers will affect the chances of extending the residence permit, according to Delfi.