Latvia will impose a ban on the import of a range of goods from Russia and Belarus, which will come into effect on September 1.

Latvia has decided to impose a ban on the import of a range of goods from Russia and Belarus, with the measure set to come into effect on September 1, according to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Latvian parliament approved the ban in July, and the government has now finalized the list of affected products, which includes books, newspapers, clothing, footwear, toys, games, and sports equipment.

This measure aims to protect the national security of Latvia and reduce export revenues for Russia and Belarus, as well as to restrict the import of Russian propaganda materials. Latvia, having a significant Russian ethnic minority, aligns itself with the policy of support for Ukraine in the context of the conflict with Russia. The import of these items will no longer be allowed even from third countries in the Baltic states that are EU and NATO members.