🇱🇻 Latvia Compound Crisis

There will be no new Pitbull concert in the near future, Ģirts Majors, head of the concert organiser “Positivus Music”, said on the Latvian Television programme “Morning Panorama” on July 30.

Over the past week, 63 migrants with no legal right to be in Estonia have been caught by the police – almost double the number apprehended last year. The authorities say the situation is connected to the migration pressure on the Latvian-Belarus border and will likely continue until the weather worsens.

The poultry farming company AS ‘Balticovo’ has invested more than two million euros in a staff apartment block project in Iecava, the company announced on July 29.

Construction of the cycle path along 11 November Embankment will begin with the section from Akmens Bridge to Dzelzceļa Bridge, where the first construction works are due to start in August. Meanwhile, on Ģertrūdes Street, the section from Aleksandra Čaka Street to Krišjāņa Barona Street will be renovated, Rīga City Council said.

On July 29th a former store security guard was led into a Rīga court in handcuffs, accused not only of espionage, but also of hooliganism and robbery.

Following the cancellation of singer Pitbull’s concert, which was due to take place on 29 July at the Mežaparks Grand Open-Air Stage, calls have been made on social media and other online platforms for people to gather at the planned concert venue nonetheless. The State Police point out that such calls are unlawful.

Estonian public media ERR News reports that Estonia will send additional police and border guard forces to Latvia to strengthen the European Union's external border.

In Latvia, just over 5,000 people have been officially diagnosed with dementia, but using internationally recognized methodology, it is estimated that the real number with the condition could reach as many as 38,000 [Data from the non-governmental organization “Alzheimer Europe”] according to a release from the Society Integration Fund (SIF). 

Calendar adjusted data (at constant prices) compiled by the Central Statistical Bureau (CSB) and published on July 29th show that, compared to June 2025, in June 2026 Latvia's total retail trade turnover rose by 4.8 %.

Just one day before the event, the concert by American musician Pitbull in Mežaparks has been cancelled. The hospitality sector is also already facing cancellations of bookings, whilst the Consumer Rights Protection Centre will be monitoring the situation to ensure that consumer rights are upheld, namely that the money spent on tickets is refunded, Latvan Radio reported on July 29.

The Competition Council (KP) has authorised the subsidiary of “Forum Cinemas Latvia OU” (Forum Cinemas) to acquire the lease rights to premises adapted for cinema use in the ‘Akropole Alfa’ shopping centre, where SIA ‘Cinamon Operations Latvia’ (‘Cinamon’) currently operates, the KP announced Wednesday.

From September 2nd, 2026, an agreement between Latvia and Ukraine on the mutual recognition and exchange of driving licences will enter into force, which will allow nationals of both countries to exchange driving licences issued in their own country for a driving licence of the other country without the need to take a test.

Estonia will send additional police and border guard forces to Latvia to strengthen the European Union's external border. The decision came after several dozen illegal migrants who entered the country through Belarus and Latvia were detained in Estonia in recent days.

The restrictions on the sale of alcoholic beverages, introduced a year ago, have not significantly reduced alcohol purchases, but have changed shoppers’ buying habits, with people adjusting the times at which they shop, according to retailers surveyed by the LETA news agency on July 29.

A new industrial park is being planned north of Rēzekne in eastern Latvia which should be one of the most significant city development projects in the coming years.

https://bnn-news.com/latvia-plans-mandatory-morning-alcohol-tests-for-some-police-officers-after-fatal-priekule-incident-282289

Currently, a direct military, conventional Russian attack on NATO is not possible, and stating this is not just an attempt to calm public fears of conflict, Latvian Defence Minister Raivis Melnis said in an interview with the LETA newswire.

Following the tragedy in Priekule, the State Police might introduce alcohol tests at the start of the working day as a preventative measure, particularly for officers who carry a weapon or drive a service vehicle, Interior Minister Jānis Dombrava (National Alliance) said in an interview with Latvian Radio on July 29.

Em causa áudios que cirulam nas redes sociais. FPF e Liga recusam comentar o caso. Ainda, as declarações do novo reforço do Benfica.

The “Tavi draugi” association is continuing its work, despite a potentially malicious fire last week in which a large proportion of the aid intended for Ukrainians was destroyed. Several businesspeople have offered the association premises, and the local council is also considering options. However, for the time being, volunteers are carrying on with their work in temporary tents, Latvian Television reported on July 28.

On Tuesday, the Government took note of a report from the Ministry of the Interior on the construction of infrastructure along the country’s eastern border. Work is scheduled to be completed by the end of this year, although the State Real Estate (VNĪ) plans to continue work on certain sections until the end of next year, Latvian Radio reported July 28.

Due to technical issues that arose during the set-up for the concert, the scheduled Pitbull concert at the Mežaparks Grand Open-Air Stage in Rīga on 29 July has been cancelled, according to organisers.

Binance’s Android app has been pulled from Google Play in Spain and Latvia after the exchange failed to secure MiCA CASP authorisation required by Google for EU users. The post Binance Android app removed from Google Play in Spain and Latvia over MiCA rules appeared first on Greek City Times .

Data on viral hepatitis published by Eurostat to mark World Hepatitis Day, observed each year on 28 July, comes with mixed news for Latvia.

On Tuesday 28 July, following lengthy discussions, the Government endorsed the hospital network reform drawn up by the Ministry of Health (VM), which provides for the introduction of three tiers of hospitals – local, regional and multi-speciality – from next year, replacing the current five-tier system.

Los aficionados del conjunto madrileño han estallado contra su presidente por el abandono de las instalaciones, después de que el equipo se haya quedado sin campo a dos semanas de debutar en Liga.

In preparation for the new academic year, some higher education institutions are promising to tighten their entry requirements for international students from third countries, Latvian Radio reported on July 28.

This coming weekend, on 31 July and 1 August, the “Summer Sound 2026” festival will take place on Liepāja beach, so congestions are expected on the highway, according to the Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD).

Last week’s heavy rain in Talsi Municipality has caused damage to 53 sections of road, Ansis Bērziņš, Chair of Talsi Municipal Council, told the LETA news agency on July 28.

The Chargé d'Affaires of the Russian Federation to the European Union was summoned on Tuesday to Brussels following repeated incursions of Russian drones into Romanian airspace and an attack on Latvia's honorary consulate in Ukraine, announced a spokesman for the head of European diplomacy, Kaja Kallas. The EU strongly condemned the violation of airspace [...] © G4Media.ro.

https://www.baltictimes.com/by_replacing_commander-in-chief_of_armed_forces__ukrainian_president_has_partially_yielded_to_public_pressure_-_expert/

https://www.baltictimes.com/valainis_calls_on_government_to_prepare_in_timely_manner_possible_support_measures_for_high_fuel_prices/

Viral hepatitis accounted for 0.21 deaths per 100,000 people in Cyprus in the year 2023, Eurostat data released by on Tuesday showed, while at an EU level the virus caused 0.64 deaths per 100,000 people. The highest death rates were recorded in Italy with 1.62 deaths per 100,000 people, Latvia 1.54 and Austria 1.02. The […]

The European Union has summoned Russia's chargé d'affaires following the incursion of Russian drones into Romanian airspace and the destruction of Latvia's honorary consulate. The deliberate violation of Romania's airspace by Russia signals a serious escalation.

For the most part, Latvia has good potential for a grain harvest this year, although in many places the rain is currently delaying the harvest. The situation is better in Zemgale, Latgale and Vidzeme, but farmers in Kurzeme are currently facing the greatest difficulties, where the rainfall has also washed out roads in many places, Latvian Radio reported on July 28.

Until recently here were 12 "Mere" stores in Latvia, in Rīga, Liepāja, Tukums, Jēkabpils and other cities, but now they have been closed because one of Mere's owners - Russian businessman Sergey Schneider - is included in the European Union (EU) sanctions list.

In Latvia, over the last ten years, the amount of household waste per capita per year has increased by around 100 kilograms. The capacity of the Getliņi landfill site will, at best, be exhausted within the next ten years, Imants Stirāns, Chairman of the Board of SIA “Getliņi eko”, told the LETA news agency.

A total of 4,869 applicants – or 91 per cent of those wishing to enrol – have been accepted to study in Year 10 at Rīga municipal schools, whilst there are still places available at around 20 schools, the Riga City Council’s External Communications Department told the LETA news agency.

Following a complaint from the public regarding possible contamination by petroleum products in the Driksa, a tributary of the Lielupe River, the State Environmental Service (VVD) carried out an inspection and found a film characteristic of petroleum products, VVD said on July 28.

In 2023, about 43% of EU farms reported having internet access. Some northern and central European countries such as Denmark, Germany, Slovakia, Latvia, Czechia, and Austria, had rates above 90%, according to Eurostat data published on July 24th.

As previously reported, the building of the Latvian Honorary Consulate in Sloviansk was severely damaged in a Russian airstrike on July 24th. Now The "Entrepreneurs for Peace" Foundation, in cooperation with journalist Ieva Vārna, is launching a fundraising campaign to help Honorary Consul Oleksandr Pavenko equip new premises for the Latvian representation in the Donetsk region.

For many Latvian families, the start of the new school year in September brings not only the excitement of returning to school, but also significant financial and emotional pressure.

Rīga City Council has signed a contract with SIA ‘Projekts 3’ for the reconstruction of the Gaisa Bridge. The design work is scheduled to be completed in 2027, whilst the reconstruction of the Gaisa Bridge is due to be finished by 2030, the local authority has announced.

The police have launched criminal proceedings against a coach at the “Ogres novada Lāči” children’s and youth ice hockey club in connection with alleged sexual abuse of a child during a camp, Latvian Television reported on July 27.

The State Police officer arrested in connection with the murder of a man in Priekule has claimed that he cannot remember the incident, as stated on Monday evening by Armands Ruks, Chief of the State Police, on the Latvian Television programme “Panorāma”.

With Brazil as its first market, Joom Group launches JoomAI, an artificial intelligence tool for marketplace sellers. The platform was created by the Latvian-origin company, currently headquartered in Portugal, and will be presented this Tuesday (28). Read more (07/27/2026 - 21h00)

Staging a theatrical performance in a small village, at 6 p.m. on a Monday evening, while a storm warning is in place and the rain is hammering down might seem like a good way to ensure no audience turns up.

Latvia's University of Latvia received over 28,000 applications through the Unified Admissions System this year, with medicine, healthcare, psychology, and law being the most popular programs among applicants.

Latvian Tax and Customs Police shut down an illegal cigarette factory in the Grobiņa area that was capable of producing around 1.5 million cigarettes per day.

Latvian authorities arrested a people smuggler in Krāslava on July 24 who had used a fake Latvian Postal Service vehicle with forged license plates to carry out his operations.

A smuggler in Latvia's Krāslava municipality was arrested for using a fake postal service vehicle with forged plates to transport six people who had previously crossed the Belarus–Latvia border illegally.

Riga, Latvia will host the International Trombone Festival for four days starting July 29, transforming the city into the trombone capital of the world.

Latvia has been hit by frequent and sometimes very heavy downpours this summer, following a dry spring, bringing potential hazards beyond just flooding.

A pig farm in Latvia, operated by SIA 'Vaiņodes bekons', is gradually resuming operations following a devastating African swine fever outbreak earlier this year.

Latvian fresh food producer SIA Latvijas pārtikas ražotājs has begun construction on a new five-million-euro production facility in Rumbula, Ropaži Municipality, the company announced on July 27.

Riga City Council received numerous inquiries from residents about an unusually large number of flying ants in various parts of the capital, Riga.

An off-duty drunk police officer in Priekule, Latvia, killed a man over the weekend, according to the State Police.

Latvian State Roads reports construction work underway at 70 locations on national roads, with speed limits enforced and many sections involving two-way traffic.

The NATO Multinational Brigade in Latvia will conduct drone training exercises from July 27th to 31st in the Kausi area of Daugmale parish, Ķekava district.

Latvia's thermal utility Rīgas siltums announced planned hydraulic safety checks on the heating network on Rīga's right bank, which will temporarily cut hot water supply to much of that area starting Thursday, with water temperatures expected to begin dropping the day before.

Latvian universities are concerned that graduates of the voluntary State Defence Service (VAD) program, who are guaranteed state-funded university placements, may fill all available spots, leaving none for other qualified applicants.

Every evening at 21:00, Latvian Radio 1 broadcasts a five-minute summary of the day's news stories in a simplified language format called Ziņas vieglajā valodā ('News in simple language').

Riga City Council issued a warning about a possible sighting of a female bear with cubs in the Imanta area on Saturday, July 25th.

Estonia's Police and Border Guard Board has intensified border checks and inspections at transport hubs to identify and apprehend individuals crossing into the country illegally from Latvia.

A Baltic nation with nearly 2.9 million residents is working to integrate approximately 200,000 people with disabilities into daily life through individual and governmental initiatives, highlighting a sustained but routine social effort.

Flowers were placed at the Holocaust Memorial, where a new memorial wall stands on the site of a previous memorial to Jewish victims, as visitors pause to reflect on history.

Cyprus’ foreign ministry on Saturday condemned a Russian strike on the Ukrainian city of Sloviansk, which killed civilians and damaged Latvia’s honorary consulate. “The targeting of residential areas is completely unacceptable. Our condolences go to the families of the victims.

Estonia has joined Ukraine, Latvia, and Lithuania in condemning the International Olympic Committee's decision to readmit Russian athletes competing under their national flag, marking a coordinated diplomatic protest by regional neighbors of Russia.

Latvia's parliament approved amendments to legislation imposing a national ban on imports of a wide range of Russian and Belarusian consumer goods, including books, video games, clothing, toys, and sports equipment.

El último semestre del año ya empezó para el DIM. Este sábado, contra el Deportivo Pasto en el estadio Ciudad de Itagüí, en Ditaires (4:10 p.m.), el cuadro rojo disputará su segundo partido en la parte final del 2026. El miércoles pasado, contra Vasco da Gama de Brasil , tuvo el primero, por la Copa Sudamericana.

Estonian police detained more than 30 migrants in Tallinn in recent days, suspected of being linked to a surge in illegal immigration at the Latvia-Belarus border, according to Estonian public media ERR News.

Russian forces launched an airstrike on the city of Sloviansk in Ukraine's Donetsk region, destroying the building of the Latvian honorary consulate.

Latvia's Prosecutor General's Office opened an investigation on July 24th to determine if officials' actions concerning airBaltic's financial situation were legally compliant.

Latvia's state-owned airline airBaltic is at risk of bankruptcy or major route reductions due to mounting financial difficulties, though Tallinn Airport says it can absorb the carrier's potential departure without panic.

Latvia's parliament approved stricter penalties for misuse of the state language, Latvian, through amendments to existing legislation.

Latvia is promoting three festival and recreational events across different regions for the upcoming weekend, highlighting summer activities for residents and visitors.

A prominent candidate in Latvia's upcoming parliamentary election had his candidacy annulled over his criminal record, according to the LETA news agency.

Police in Tallinn have detained more than 30 migrants in recent days as part of a crackdown linked to rising illegal immigration at the Latvia-Belarus border. The detentions suggest coordination between smuggling operations operating across the Baltic region.

Latvia's Minister of Economics Viktors Valainis signed a memorandum of understanding with a US-founded company to establish a full-cycle artillery production facility in Latvia.

The State Security Service has confirmed it is supporting the State Police in their investigation into a fire that occurred on the night of July 19th.

A poorly maintained road in Ziemupe, Latvia, is causing significant problems for local businesses and tourism.

The largest exhibition of Latvian art in exile, titled "Without America," has opened at the Exhibition Gallery of the Liepāja Latvian Society House.

A new concert hall on the outskirts of Salaspils, Latvia, funded by a municipal investment of nearly 20 million euros, is scheduled to open in September.

Construction of wooden railway platforms in Latvia is experiencing delays and is expected to become approximately 70% more expensive than initially planned, according to Latvian Radio.

Latvia's parliament has passed amendments to ban the import of books, toys, video games, sports goods, clothing, and footwear from Russia and Belarus. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which prepared the changes, stated the goal is to reduce economic ties with these countries. The law also prohibits importing such goods from third countries if they originated in Russia or Belarus, though transit through Latvia remains permitted. Officials acknowledge that goods already in the EU market can still enter Latvia due to free market principles, but emphasize the law's signaling and political importance, encouraging partners to reduce trade with Russia and Belarus.

Latvia’s parliament, the Saeima, has passed amendments to the law on supporting Ukraine’s civilian population that ban the import of a range of goods produced in Russia and Belarus, the news outlet Delfi reported. Lawmakers approved the amendments in their final reading on July 23.

Latvia's parliament has passed amendments to a law supporting Ukraine, which includes a ban on the import of various goods produced in Russia and Belarus.

The Saeima, Latvia's parliament, has introduced a new electronic voting system to replace the voting machines that had been in use since 1997.

The Latvian parliament, Saeima, has passed amendments to the Unfair Trade Practices Prohibition Law in its final reading, with 81 votes in favor and none against, to promote fair cooperation between agricultural and food suppliers and retailers.

Film director Reinis Ūbelis has taken over as the head of Latvian Radio 5, a youth-oriented public service radio channel, following an open selection process.

A retrospective exhibition titled "The Other Mind" by renowned American photographer Roger Ballen has opened in Daugavpils, Latvia.

The Baltic states have reached an agreement to jointly share and procure essential reserve equipment for their electricity systems, enhancing the energy security of all three nations.

Latvian football champions Rīga celebrated victory in the first match of the second round of the UEFA Conference League qualifying tournament in North Macedonia on Wednesday.

A story concerning an alleged sexual assault in central Riga, which gained significant traction on social media and was initially attributed to migrants or asylum seekers, has seen a new development.

The right to vote is a fundamental right for citizens in a democratic country, but exercising this right can be difficult for people with disabilities.

A new book titled "Kaucminde's Horseshoe" by Andris Grīnbergs has been published, focusing on the history and current condition of Kaucminde Palace in Latvia.

A survey of 1,009 Latvians aged 18 to 74 revealed that over a third eat take-away meals at work, and 15% purchase or order from caterers.

Romanian households had the lowest debt-to-GDP ratio in the European Union at the end of 2025, with consolidated household debt amounting to 12.3% of GDP, according to Eurostat data cited by B1tv.ro . The indicator, which also includes debt held by non-profit institutions serving households, declined from 12.5% of GDP in 2024 to 12.3% in 2025. Romania ranked well below the next least-indebted countries in the bloc, with household debt standing at 18.3% of GDP in Hungary and 19.8% in Latvia.

The Crisis Management Centre of the State Chancellery has compiled a 'National Risk Catalogue'.

Latvia's President and Prime Minister discussed the proposed sale of Baltic bank Luminor to Hungary's OTP after their regular meeting on July 22nd.

The usual mid-July mushroom picking season is yielding fewer forest fungi this year, according to pickers, buyers, and market reports. This scarcity has resulted in higher prices than in previous years.

Latvia benefits from relatively low levels of public debt, despite not having one of the largest economies in the European Union.

The Entrepreneurs for Peace foundation established a civil-military cooperation base in Riga on July 21. This initiative aims to serve as a hub for entrepreneurs, state institutions, NGOs, and the public to collaborate on strengthening Latvia's resilience and providing support to Ukraine.

The Latvian Cabinet of Ministers approved its government's action plan on Tuesday, July 21st, with just over two months remaining until the parliamentary elections scheduled for October 3rd. This approval comes two months after the current government, led by Andris Kulbergs, took office.

The 'World Malenian Festival' will be held in Jaunlaicene, northern Latvia, on July 24th and 25th. The event will feature Malenian traditions, including concerts, dance, and theatre performances, as well as traditional food and music.

The "Daugava" football stadium in Liepāja, Latvia, has been severely damaged after a concert by the pop group "Brainstorm" was held there over the weekend. Tire tracks and mud have torn up the playing surface, leaving it unusable.

A green flood alert was issued in Latvia from July 20-21, 2026. The event caused no deaths or displacement of people.

OONI network measurement detected 7 confirmed censorship events in LV over the past 7 days (0.0% of 52413 web connectivity tests). Blocking typically indicates state-directed DNS, HTTP, or TCP interference.

More than 50 days after a teenager died in a barn fire in Branti parish, Smiltene region, the family has not been able to bury their child. The parents are convinced that their son's bones are still scattered at the scene of the accident and accuse the police of not searching the area thoroughly enough.

Latvian Radio 3 broadcast a live performance by accordionist Ksenija Sidorova on July 20th.

A prestigious trail running series, the UTMB World Series Events, will be held for the first time in Latvia's Gauja National Park at the start of August.

The world's best sidecar and quad riders will compete at the Madona "Smeceres sila" motorcycle track this weekend for a world championship stage.

Latvia plans to equip its entire eastern border with automated anti-drone systems by the end of September, according to Defence Minister Raivis Melnis.

The University of Latvia has reported a record-high level of interest from prospective students following the conclusion of the application process for the 2026/2027 academic year.

Latvia's Transport Minister issued a statement on July 21st addressing the significant problems plaguing the Latvian portion of the Rail Baltica project, including financial shortfalls, escalating costs, missed deadlines, and frequent changes in board members and contractor disputes.

Intense rains on the evening of Monday, July 20th, caused damage in the Talsi region. The Dursupe mill lake overflowed, flooding the surrounding area and washing out local roads.

OTP Bank has agreed to acquire Luminor, the third-largest banking group in the Baltic region, marking a major consolidation in the Baltic financial sector.

Hungarian banking giant OTP Group will enter the Baltic markets by acquiring Luminor, the third-largest banking group in the region.

Police officers in Latvia's Vidzeme region encountered several instances of drink-driving over the weekend, with two cases highlighted by the regional newspaper Ziemeļlatvija as particularly notable.

Latvian Television reports that individuals exploit the human capacity for loneliness and the desire to be loved for financial gain.

A senior official at Latvia's Prosecution Office was dismissed from her position following an investigation, according to state media reports.

High Vulnerabilities Primary Vendor -- Product Description Published CVSS Score Source Info @fastify/http-proxy--@fastify/http-proxy Impact: @fastify/http-proxy versions up to and including 11.5.0 fail to rewrite the request prefix when the prefix segment is URL-encoded. Fastify's router URL-decodes paths for route matching, but request.url retains the original encoded form, and the prefix-rewrite step uses a literal string replace against the decoded prefix. A request that encodes one or more characters of the configured prefix therefore matches the route but skips the rewrite, so the raw encoded path is forwarded to the upstream unchanged.

Firefighters and rescue crews responded to multiple water-related incidents over the weekend of July 18-19, providing assistance to people in distress on the water.

A consumer protection agency reported receiving over 4,100 applications in the first half of 2026, marking a 51% increase from the same period the previous year.

Latvia's Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs announced that the government is in discussions with three different investors regarding potential investment in the country's national airline, airBaltic.

Latvia's newly constructed apartment buildings often lack basements and shelter facilities despite ongoing conflict in neighboring Ukraine, raising concerns about civilian protection in the event of military attack. The article examines why developers have omitted this safety infrastructure and the cost implications of retrofitting shelters.

Latvia's weather authorities have issued an orange danger warning for violent storms expected to affect much of the country on Monday, July 20th.

OONI network measurement detected 19 confirmed censorship events in LV over the past 7 days (0.0% of 40708 web connectivity tests). Blocking typically indicates state-directed DNS, HTTP, or TCP interference.

An internal investigation into drone incidents that occurred in Rēzekne on May 7 has identified shortcomings within the armed forces, though no disciplinary sanctions have been imposed on any individuals.

OONI network measurement detected 19 confirmed censorship events in Latvia over the past 7 days, representing 0.1% of 35,711 web connectivity tests, with blocking indicating state-directed DNS, HTTP, or TCP interference.

A Latvian mycologist has advised the public against picking and consuming old or damaged mushrooms, particularly during dry seasons when edible mushrooms are scarce. She warned that such mushrooms can still cause digestive disorders.

Network measurement data from OONI detected 19 confirmed internet censorship events in Latvia over the past seven days, affecting 0.1% of 31,068 web connectivity tests, with blocking methods consistent with state-directed DNS, HTTP, or TCP interference.

The Baltic Sea region is experiencing ongoing jamming and GPS spoofing attacks against satellite navigation systems, according to Swedish Transport Agency officials. The manipulated GNSS signals are spreading geographically and complicating detection efforts, raising serious concerns about maritime and aviation safety in the strategically important waterway.

There are numerous events and fairs scheduled for the weekend in Latvia, with fair weather expected.

The Rēzekne City Council has approved changes to the auction rules for the lease rights of a spa complex in an effort to divest the property.

Latvijas banka, the central bank of Latvia, has published its latest Macroeconomic Projections Report online.

An investigation by the Polish media outlet Vot Tak has uncovered thousands of advertisements on the Telegram platform seeking individuals to carry out sabotage and espionage tasks in Europe, including offers for malicious activities in Latvia.

Latvia's Radio Theatre is launching a call for ghost stories from the public, with the best submissions to be professionally narrated and broadcast in autumn as part of an effort to preserve traditional Latvian folklore.

Latvian Radio 1 airs a five-minute simplified-language news summary each evening at 21:00 as part of its regular broadcast schedule.

About 20 people gathered outside Latvia's Ministry of Education and Science in Riga to protest the closure of the Jūrmala branch of Murjāņi Sports Gymnasium.

Latvia's flag carrier airBaltic announced plans to raise short-term financing from bondholders to manage its cash position.

Valmiera district in northern Latvia has released a new English-language booklet promoting active tourism offerings to attract foreign visitors during the peak season.

Riga Municipality plans to build new cycle lanes on Lāčplēša, Marijas, Šarlotes, and Dzirnavu streets to improve cycling infrastructure safety in the capital's city center.

Latvia's upcoming parliamentary elections on October 3rd are seeing fewer candidates stand in the eastern Latgale region compared to four years prior, with roughly a quarter of current candidates not even residing there.

Latvia's Cabinet of Ministers approved a draft law on Tuesday to refine regulations governing the State Defence Service, the country's compulsory military conscription system, drawing on lessons from the first six recruitment intakes.

Latvia's parliament committee voted to elevate Carnikava village to city status, with the law set to take effect on August 22 to align with local festival celebrations.

Latvia's Foreign Minister Baiba Braže will attend a conference of foreign ministers hosted by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington on July 15–16.

Latvia will host the second Latvian Dual-Use Export Forum in the eastern city of Rēzekne on September 7th at the GORS concert hall, an event focused on regulated trade and export compliance.

Latvia's blackcurrant exports have surged to historically high levels in recent years, signaling strong performance in the country's berry export sector.

Russia has announced plans to sue the Baltic states at the International Court of Justice, alleging systematic discrimination against ethnic Russians—a legal challenge that would likely become Estonia's costliest international litigation to date, according to Baltic investigative journalists.

Latvia's population is projected to decline significantly over the coming decades, according to newly released Eurostat regional demographic data.

Remains of a Latvian Railways employee who fell into the Daugava River in Riga and went missing on Friday were discovered on Zaķusala island on Tuesday afternoon, police confirmed.

Latvia's centralized school exam results show stagnant performance in primary education with 818 students failing all tests, while secondary students improved in Latvian and English but declined in mathematics.

Latvia's Consumer Rights Protection Center found that retailers have fairly applied recent VAT rate changes to eggs, milk, fresh poultry meat, and bread.

Latvia has established a new National Institute of Research and Innovation by merging the Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis with the Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, aimed at accelerating the development and deployment of new medicines and medical technologies.

Latvia and at least seven other European countries are preparing to petition the European Commission to withdraw EU funding from the International Olympic Committee over its attempts to reintegrate Russia and Belarus into international athletic competitions.

Paris unveiled a commemorative plaque for the Baltic Way on Monday, with the city's mayor and the prime ministers of Latvia and Estonia marking the historical significance of the 1989 independence movement.

Russia is reportedly planning to pursue legal cases against Baltic states through international courts as a pressure tactic, according to an investigative report by Re:Baltica. The strategy appears designed to impose financial and administrative burdens on the three NATO members.

Latvia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs will host its 12th annual meeting of honorary consuls from July 13–15, 2026, to brief them on foreign policy priorities, security issues, and bilateral economic and cultural opportunities.

The Latvian Coast Guard's Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Center received a report on Sunday of a missing diver in the Baltic Sea approximately 10 nautical miles northeast of Roja, Latvia.

A cultural news editor is offering recommendations for cultural activities and leisure pursuits this week.

Eurostat data published on July 13th shows Latvia has average hospital bed capacity compared to its EU peers, indicating the country's healthcare infrastructure is consistent with regional standards.

CarrierTrust, a Latvia-based logistics startup, has launched a reputation network platform aimed at the European transport and logistics industry.

Latvia's state-owned forest management company has purchased approximately 5,000 hectares of forestland in Ludza region from Swedish owners for just over €26 million.

The EU's revised packaging and packaging waste regulation takes effect on August 12th, broadening the definition of packaging to include items such as tea bags and mascara brushes, while introducing stricter limits on harmful substances and new recycling and reuse requirements.

KUALA TERENGGANU: Bekas 'arkitek' Terengganu FC (TFC), Habib Haroon hampir pasti kembali menyertai pasukan itu dalam mengharungi saingan Liga Malaysia musim 2026/2027.

Train traffic in Riga was affected on Sunday as the result to a tragic accident, the LETA news agency reported.

The author shares a personal experience of holding a real crown.

Latvia has slightly more workers in the cultural sector than the EU average, according to Eurostat figures published on July 10th.

Diplomats from Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia visited the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to protest against disinformation being spread by Russian foreign ministry representatives.

Diplomats from Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia have visited Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs to lodge a protest over disinformation spread by Russian foreign ministry officials.

Experts link an uptick in Russian disinformation aimed at NATO's eastern flank to Latvia and Estonia's upcoming parliamentary elections.

Representatives of the Embassies of the Baltic States in Moscow made a joint demarche at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, rejecting false public statements by Russian officials targeting Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.

Henry Patten and Harri Heliovaara won the Wimbledon men's doubles title with a 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/3) victory over Marcelo Arevalo and Mate Pavic in Saturday's final. Top seeded Patten and Heliovaara have now won three Grand Slam doubles titles together, having previously triumphed at Wimbledon in 2024 and the Australian Open last year. Britain's Patten and Finland's Heliovaara are the 11th team in the Open era to win multiple Wimbledon men's doubles titles and the first since Bob and Mike Bryan won their second at the All England Club in 2011.

Even in Liepāja, the name Otto Fischer is little known these days. Yet the Austrian-Jewish football coach was once the talk of the city and left an indelible mark in the history of Latvian football. Now his achievements have finally been honored and brought back into the public memory.

The foreign ministries of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have issued a statement strongly rejecting disinformation efforts by Russia's Foreign Ministry over alleged use of their airspace in drone strikes on Russia.

Diplomats from the Baltic states rejected Russia's disinformation efforts by the Russian Foreign Ministry.

Every evening at 21:00, Latvian Radio 1 broadcasts a five-minute summary of the day's news stories in a simplified language format called Ziņas vieglajā valodā ('News in simple language').

The revised recovery and resilience plans for Cyprus, Lithuania, Finland, Luxembourg, Germany, Latvia, Slovenia and the Netherlands, as well as Hungary’s new €10 billion plan, were approved on Friday at the Ecofin in Brussels. During the council, Cyprus expressed support to the Irish EU presidency’s goal to secure a negotiating mandate at the October council […]

Central Statistical Bureau provisional data show that in May 2026 Latvia had foreign trade turnover of 3.86 billion euro, and at current prices it was 8.4 % higher than a year ago.

https://www.baltictimes.com/nato_summit_provided_latvia_with_assurances_regarding_importance_of_collective_defense_commitments_-_rinkevics/

Marcelo Arévalo gave El Salvador a historic moment at Wimbledon, teaming with Latvia’s Jelena Ostapenko to win the mixed doubles title Thursday on Centre Court. The second-seeded pair defeated Australians Storm Hunter and Marc Polmans 4-6, 7-5, 6-2, coming back from a set and a break down to claim the championship. It was the first […] The post El Salvador’s Marcelo Arévalo Wins Wimbledon Mixed Doubles Title appeared first on The Tico Times | Costa Rica News | Travel | Real Estate .

The LAMPA conversation festival takes place in Cēsis on July 10-11. As always, there are dozens of different discussions taking place, many of which will be livestreamed and some of which will be in English.

Tax and Customs Police officers, in cooperation with State Border Guard officers, conducted an inspection of a warehouse in Rīga, in the Teika suburb, at the end of June this year. During the search, a large quantity of cigarettes, vehicles, tracking devices and other items were seized, indicating an intention to covertly transport a large quantity of cigarettes of illegal origin.

The 50th heart transplant in Latvia has taken place at Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital (PSKUS), reports Latvian Television.

The jazz club "M/Darbnīca – M/House of Jazz" is holding a new generation jazz competition "Young and Talented" on Wednesdays in July and August, which takes place in the format of a concert cycle, reports Latvian Television.

A Baltic country initially succeeded in combating synthetic opioids before they reached the US, but is now facing newer, more dangerous drugs that threaten to spread across Europe.

A loud noise, reminiscent of thunder, shook the Karosta neighbourhood in Liepāja on Wednesday evening. Although strong winds were battering the city in Kurzeme, the cause this time was different: during equipment testing at the Rapsoil wind farm, the blade of one turbine snapped and fell. The rotor is located on the outskirts of the city; no one was injured, TV Kurzeme reports.

Latvian tennis star Aļona Ostapenko, paired with Salvadoran Marcelo Arevalo, won the mixed doubles final at the Wimbledon Championships on Thursday. It is the former French Open champion's first grand slam title on grass.

Starting Sunday, the weather in Latvia will become drier and warmer, and will often be even hot, according to forecasts by weatherman Toms Bricis.

Latvia is currently the number one target of Belarus’s hybrid warfare, and the challenges are immense, Guntis Pujāts, commander of the State Border Guard, told Latvian Television on July 9 regarding the situation on the eastern border.

18 år gamle Nicolai Heiberg-Evenstad fra Senja gikk denne uka til topps i bridge-EM i Latvia. Det skjedde i hans første mesterskap på seniornivå. Ifølge avisa Folkebladet er han tidenes yngste europamester i åpen klasse.

https://www.delfi.lt/en/politics/citizen-of-france-detained-in-lithuania-for-smuggling-19-migrants-from-latvia-120274243

On Thursday, July 9, the unified admissions process for undergraduate programs began at eight Latvian universities. Online applications for admission will continue on the “Latvija.lv” portal from Thursday through July 20, while prospective students will be able to apply in person starting July 14, Latvian Radio reports.

The State Police have uncovered a staged robbery in Ogre that was organised to conceal the embezzlement of company funds, police said on July 9.

The agricultural services cooperative “Viļāni” has a wide range of organic dairy products and the “Bryunaļa” brand, which was launched 11 years ago. Due to the unprofitability of the production facility, a decision was made to discontinue the production of organic dairy products as of July 10, Latvian Radio reported on July 9.

At 10 a.m., the Security Council will hear a briefing on Ukraine following two major waves of drone and missile attacks, overnight 1-2 July and 5-6 July, by the Russian Federation on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities. The meeting - requested by Ukraine and supported by the Council’s European members: Denmark, France, Greece, Latvia and the UK -will feature briefings by Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo and Acting Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Indrika Ratwatte. It will be held under the “threats to international peace and security” agenda item. Ukraine and several regional countries are expected to participate under rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, while the European Union is expected to participate under rule 39.

Police officers in Pārdaugava arrested a young man who, since this spring, had stolen fuel from at least six gas stations in Rīga and the surrounding area using luxury cars. The suspect is currently being held in temporary custody, according to the State Police.