Latvia is sealing itself off: Russians are banned from buying real estate!

Latvia is sealing itself off: Russians are banned from buying real estate!

Today, June 20, 2025, the Latvian Parliament passed a wide-ranging ban on the purchase of real estate by Russian and Belarusian citizens. The decision, taken in the capital Riga, is part of a comprehensive package of measures to strengthen national security and curb potential influence operations. The new law applies not only to private individuals, but also to legal entities, including joint stock companies and registered associations from Russia and Belarus, such as Deutschlandfunk reported.

The Latvian government justifies this ban primarily with the so-called hybrid war that Russia is waging against other states. The acquisition of real estate is viewed as a non-military instrument for exerting influence. Such strategies have proven problematic in the past, as Russia has often used the presence of Russian citizens abroad as a pretext for military intervention.

Safety concerns in focus

With this step, Latvia is also responding to the security policy challenges arising from Russia's aggressive actions. Given that around 25 percent of Latvia's population is of Russian origin, the need for a solid legal framework becomes particularly clear. How n-tv points out, Latvia has also largely suspended the issuance of visas and residence permits to Russians in order to further increase security.

In addition, Latvia decided to withdraw from the Anti-Personnel Mine Treaty in April 2025, which also targets the threats from Russia. These decisions reflect the ongoing trend of the Baltic states expanding their border facilities in recent years to deter possible aggression from Moscow.