Pro-Russia author released from detention in Latvia
A pro-Russia author, Guszczyn, has been released from detention in Latvia and placed under police supervision, banned from leaving the country. He was held for nine months for allegedly publishing pro-Russian propaganda on an EU-sanctioned website, with his case set to continue in 2027. His lawyer cited health and age, while confirming his Russian connections.
Why it matters
This case highlights Latvia's efforts to counter Russian propaganda and influence within its borders, reflecting broader geopolitical tensions and the legal challenges of balancing free speech with national security concerns in the context of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The court changed the security measure previously imposed on Guszczyn – detention – to placing the accused under police supervision. As an additional security measure, he was banned from leaving the country. Guščins has spent about nine months in custody. He was released in the courtroom immediately after the court's decision. Guščins' lawyer, Imma Jansone, indicated that she views the court's decision positively, emphasizing that the defendant would not be able to flee the country due to his age and health condition. She also confirmed that while author Guščins did not deny his connection to Russia, he has not traveled there since 2023. Jansone explained that her controversial client has been diagnosed with diabetes and needs to provide assistance to his 95-year-old mother.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in