Latvia Calls for Citizens to Avoid Travel to Russia and Belarus

The State Security Service of Latvia has urged its citizens to refrain from visiting Russia and Belarus during the New Year and Christmas holidays. This warning was published on the agency's website.

It is noted that the recommendation is due to alleged high risks of conscription. The State Security Service also warns that should Latvians be forced to travel to these countries, they should avoid using mobile phones. According to the agency, gadgets may be 'infected with spy software.'

At the end of November, Estonia's Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna advised his citizens not to cross Russian territory, amidst the situation surrounding the Finnish-Russian state border. The diplomat stated that there is a possibility that the border may be closed.