Latvia’s Ministry of Defence has warned that a Russian information operation is currently targeting the Baltic States, with false claims that Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia are supporting Ukrainian attacks against Russia.
In a statement, the Ministry said the allegations are incorrect and that the Baltic States are not involved in planning or carrying out Ukraine’s counterattacks. Officials reiterated that their support to Ukraine is limited to military equipment, humanitarian aid, and financial assistance, in line with international commitments.
The Ministry said the Russian information operation is part of a broader effort to discredit NATO, weaken public trust in state institutions, and reduce support for Ukraine across the region.
Russian Information Operation Targets Baltic Societies
According to Latvian authorities, the campaign involves coordinated disinformation efforts, including the use of social media bots and targeted messaging. The operation is said to focus on Russian-speaking communities and younger audiences.
Officials stated that such narratives are being amplified to create confusion and division within Baltic societies.
The warning comes amid heightened concerns over hybrid threats in the region, including cyberattacks and influence operations linked to Russia.
Ukrainian Drone Incidents Used to Amplify Claims
The Russian information operation follows recent reports of Ukrainian drones entering Baltic airspace during large-scale attacks on Russian infrastructure.
Authorities in Latvia and Estonia confirmed that two drones entered their airspace earlier this week via Russia. One drone reportedly struck a chimney at a power station near the Estonian border, while another crash-landed. Lithuania also reported a separate incident where a drone fell into a frozen lake.
Officials said there were no casualties or significant damage from these incidents.
The drones are believed to have been part of a broader Ukrainian operation targeting Russian oil facilities, including ports along the Baltic Sea.
No Direct Involvement by Baltic States
Latvian authorities stressed that the Russian information operation is attempting to link these drone incidents to alleged Baltic involvement, which they deny.
The Ministry noted that Ukraine has the right to defend itself against Russia’s invasion and that Baltic support does not extend to operational involvement in military actions.
Officials also suggested that such claims are intended to divert attention from Russia’s own challenges in countering Ukrainian strikes.
Growing Focus on Hybrid Threats
The latest warning adds to ongoing concerns about hybrid activities in the Baltic region. Earlier this year, Latvian security services reported that cyberattacks and sabotage operations linked to Russia remain a significant threat.
Officials have also indicated that Russia’s perception of Latvia is becoming more confrontational, drawing comparisons to its stance toward Ukraine prior to the 2022 invasion.
While no immediate military threat has been identified, authorities say information operations remain a key tool being used to influence public opinion and destabilize the region.
Monitoring and Response Ongoing
Latvia’s Ministry of Defence said it continues to monitor the Russian information operation and assess its impact across the Baltic States.
The government has urged vigilance against disinformation and reiterated its commitment to supporting Ukraine within the framework of international law.
The situation remains under observation as authorities track both the spread of false narratives and related security developments in the region.
