Latvia Arrests Two Accused of Collecting NATO Intelligence for Russia’s GRU

Latvia detained two citizens suspected of collecting intelligence on the country’s defense sector for Russia’s military intelligence agency, the GRU, Latvia’s State Security Service reported on September 30.

The pair were arrested on June 28 in cooperation with Latvia’s Military Intelligence and Security Service. A criminal case had been opened the previous day over the alleged collection and transfer of non-public information to a foreign intelligence service.

Russian hybrid operations across Europe have included sabotage, arson, cyberattacks, drone incursions, disinformation, and surveillance of military and critical infrastructure. UNITED24 Media recently detailed how these tactics have intensified across the continent, often using recruited local operatives while remaining below the threshold of conventional war.

Investigators determined that the suspects gathered and passed information to the GRU about Latvia’s defense system, NATO-allied activity, and different forms of support for Ukraine, the State Security Service noted.

The intelligence allegedly included information on a Latvian National Armed Forces air base, radar systems, and the movement of military air transport.

One of the suspects also conducted reconnaissance of the Ādaži military base and photographed it from the air using a small private aircraft, according to the agency.

The pair are additionally suspected of carrying out activities intended to support potential intelligence and sabotage groups operating inside Latvia.

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On the day of the arrests, security officers searched three locations linked to the suspects in Riga and the Ādaži municipality. Authorities seized a large number of data-storage devices, documents, and notes, which are still being examined.

Both suspects remain in custody while Latvia’s State Security Service and Military Intelligence and Security Service continue the investigation.

Lithuania recently moved to restrict Russian and Belarusian citizens from buying property near strategically important sites, including those with valid residence permits. Similar restrictions have already been introduced in Latvia and Finland, while Estonia is preparing its own measures.

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