An investigation reveals that Russian-controlled Telegram channels are masquerading as local Latvian voices to influence public opinion and promote pro-Kremlin narratives.

A report by The Insider indicates that approximately one-third of socio-political Telegram channels in Latvia are controlled by Russian propagandists posing as local citizens. This figure increases to over 65% when focusing exclusively on Russian-language channels. These accounts frequently amplify content from Russian state media and military bloggers, portraying life in Latvia as deteriorating while advocating for an end to the country's support for Ukraine.

Network Structure and Content

The Insider analyzed 72 Latvian socio-political channels, finding that nearly three-quarters of their shared content originates from Russian state media, official government channels, or pro-war 'Z-channels.' Many of these accounts are managed by individuals who no longer reside in Latvia, operating instead from Russia or Belarus. The channels frequently cross-post content to amplify narratives that claim Russian speakers in Latvia are being persecuted and that the country is experiencing a rise in Nazism.

Key Figures and Organizations

Several prominent channels are linked to state-run media groups like Rossiya Segodnya. For instance, the 'Baltnews' channel is run by the editorial staff of the 'Russia Today' International Information Agency. Other influential channels are led by former Latvian politicians, such as Aleksejs Rosļikovs, who currently resides in Belarus while facing criminal charges in Latvia for inciting ethnic hatred. Another major entity, 'Baltic Antifascists,' is led by Sergejs Vasiļjevs, who has openly admitted to gathering intelligence for Russian security services regarding the demolition of Soviet monuments.

Narratives and Tactics

The network consistently promotes the idea that Latvian public funds are being diverted to the war in Ukraine at the expense of the local population's standard of living. Even positive economic indicators are framed negatively to suggest that minor savings do not alleviate poverty. Additionally, the channels provide guidance on emigrating to Russia and warn that war could break out in Latvia if the government does not alter its stance toward Moscow.