Russia boosts propaganda efforts targeting Baltics states
According to these reports, Russian intelligence agencies have been recruiting individuals from Latvia, using Telegram channels or inviting them to Russia, to promote Moscow’s narratives.
Those approached are often young people or members of low-income groups seeking financial gain.
Reports mention the case of Oleg Besedin, a videographer and blogger, who was detained in Estonia in early November. He had allegedly collaborated with Russian media for years, producing documentaries and reports consistent with Kremlin messaging.
"Besedin is suspected of participating in information influence campaigns by cooperating with people who live and work in Russia. That is, it is not just a question of him expressing his opinion about Estonia or other Baltic states – he does it in cooperation with persons in Russia.
According to our suspicions, these people specialize in information campaigns," said Estonian State Prosecutor Taavi Pern.
Erki Korts, the head of the Estonian Institute of Internal Security, explained that Besedin probably received detailed instructions regarding his actions, including which stories to publish, topics to focus on, and political viewpoints to promote.
In February, Latvian national Marat Kasem, formerly editor-in-chief of Sputnik Lithuania, shared information about an online conference organized by the pro-Kremlin Institute for CIS Countries, as stated by reports. During this event, pro-Kremlin activist Aleksandrs Gaponenko reportedly claimed that Latvia is experiencing ethnocide and suggested that any “humanitarian intervention in the Baltic states” by Moscow would require prior ideological preparation.
Gaponenko’s statements have led to legal proceedings over allegations of aiding a foreign state and inciting national hatred, though he denies any wrongdoing.
Reports indicate that the organization also held a meeting in September, during which it criticized what it described as oppression of compatriots in Latvia and the mandatory Latvian-language test for Russian citizens.
Latvian authorities have noted Russia’s concerted efforts to ensure its propaganda and disinformation campaigns reach and influence Latvian society. The Constitution Protection Bureau reportedly highlighted that the Fund for the Support and Protection of Compatriots Living Abroad, managed by the Russian Foreign Ministry, continues to support Russian influence operations in the Baltic states and cover legal expenses for pro-Kremlin activists facing lawsuits in the region.
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