The Latvian government passed a law banning “certain public events” on May 9, the date of Victory Day over Nazi Germany. According to the official document signed by Latvian President Egils Levits, the law aims to protect public health and morals, show solidarity with the people of Ukraine, and prevent the glorification of war, military aggression, totalitarianism, and false representations of historical events.
The law prohibits the holding of public shows, festive events, rallies, marches, and pickets in open-air public spaces. In addition, the use of fireworks is prohibited for 24 hours until 7 a.m. local time on May 10. Public events that are in line with the objectives of the law, such as events commemorating injured and deceased Ukrainians, will be allowed.
It is important to note that in Latvia, as in all of Europe, the anniversary of the victory over fascism in World War II is celebrated on May 8, since the unconditional capitulation of Germany was signed that day in Berlin, but in Moscow it came into force on May 9, 1945, due to the time difference. Despite this, thousands of Latvian citizens often take to the streets on May 9 to celebrate the victory over Nazi Germany and pay tribute to the millions of Soviet soldiers and civilians who died fighting fascism.
In another ex-Soviet country, Moldova, Prime Minister Dorin Recean announced that citizens who wear the Saint George ribbon on Victory Day will be fined. The Prime Minister pointed out that, once the necessary regulations are ready, the Ministry of the Interior will announce how those who do not comply with the legislation will be documented and sanctioned. Recean stated that everyone should understand that these symbols are prohibited in Moldova.