Latvian security forces apprehend alleged Russian spy in espionage case

A Latvian national has been arrested in Riga on charges of espionage for allegedly transmitting classified information to Russian intelligence services, the State Security Service announced.

The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, was detained on August 27, 2025. He is currently the subject of a criminal investigation under Latvian law for the unlawful collection and transfer of sensitive data to a foreign intelligence agency. The security service confirmed that formal proceedings have been initiated, Caliber.Az reports, citing Latvian media.

According to a statement released by the service, the man systematically gathered and delivered highly sensitive information to Russian operatives. The compromised data reportedly included details on:

The planning and precise locations of Latvian military infrastructure;

Security protocols and ongoing construction of new defence installations;

The training regimens and deployment of military personnel;

The presence and activities of NATO allied forces stationed in Latvia.

Security analysts believe the leaked information could have been exploited by Russia to jeopardize not only Latvia’s national defence capabilities but also the broader security architecture of the Baltic region and NATO’s eastern flank.

By Vafa Guliyeva