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Latvia alleges Russia, Belarus intelligence funnel migrants ahead elections

By Drooid · Oct 2, 2026, 11:01 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Latvian officials allege Russian and Belarusian intelligence are funneling migrants into Latvia.
Border Guard chief Gen. Guntis Pujats says the scheme seeks to destabilize Latvia before Saturday’s elections.
Authorities claim gangs use commercial or chartered flights from Russia or Belarus to bring migrants to forested frontiers near Latvia.
More than 11,000 migrants were turned away this year, setting a record for Latvia.

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Story summary

Latvian officials allege Russian and Belarusian intelligence are funneling migrants into Latvia.
Border Guard chief Gen. Guntis Pujats says the scheme seeks to destabilize Latvia before Saturday’s elections.
Authorities claim gangs use commercial or chartered flights from Russia or Belarus to bring migrants to forested frontiers near Latvia.
More than 11,000 migrants were turned away this year, setting a record for Latvia.