AGP Executive Report

Cybersecurity & Accountability: Latvia’s President Rinkēvičs has asked the prosecutor general to review officials at the Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD) after a major cyberattack exposed data on about 1.2 million people, with the transport minister ordering an expedited internal probe and CSDD management stepping down. Aviation Rescue & State Support: Latvia’s parliament has given preliminary “green light” to possible state involvement in airBaltic’s financial stabilisation, including bridge-financing bonds and converting state-held bonds into equity, as the airline cuts fleet size and capacity. Trade Transparency: Latvia’s Central Statistical Bureau has started publishing a list of companies trading with Belarus and Russia, aiming to let the public and partners see who is still exporting or importing. Language Policy: Responsibility for adult Latvian language proficiency testing is set to shift from the State Education Development Agency to the Latvian Language Agency, with a push to unify methods. Security Research Rules: The Defence Ministry has drafted amendments to allow “good-faith” security researchers to access systems to identify vulnerabilities under proportionate limits. Weather Watch: Forecasters warn of heavy rain and thunderstorms across Latvia, with gusty winds along the coast.

Cybersecurity Crisis: Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs has asked the prosecutor general to review actions at the Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD) after a major cyberattack exposed data tied to about 1.2 million people and 200,000 companies, prompting resignations from CSDD’s management and supervisory council and raising fresh questions about responsibility and oversight. Political Fallout: Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs says governance of state-owned firms has become a “political retirement home,” while coalition partners clash over whether the state should be allowed to inject more money into airBaltic. airBaltic Fight: The Saeima Budget and Finance Committee backed a draft law that could enable state participation in airBaltic stabilization, but the Greens and Farmers’ Union oppose the package without changes, calling it unclear and too costly. Border Pressure: Latvia is tightening border security amid threats from Russia and Belarus, including irregular migration and drone risks, as officials warn of a wider hybrid pressure campaign. Baltic Economy: Estonia’s Agrone/Falber Investments has agreed to buy Latvia’s Rīgas piena kombināts (and Valmieras piens), a deal that could reshape dairy brands across the region. Culture & Society: A Canadian Forces band is set to tour Latvia’s regions, while Latvia’s National Cultural Council has elected new leadership.

Cybersecurity & Accountability: Latvia’s CSDD cyberattack fallout keeps growing: the state says 1.2 million people’s data and 200,000 firms were hit, while Transport Minister Rihards Kozlovskis has pushed CSDD board and management resignations and launched an urgent probe into what went wrong, including the Tet monitoring contract. Border Security: Latvia is tightening its eastern border posture as migrants, drones and war fears blur into one security challenge, with “Operation Werewolf” targeting illegal crossers. National Defence Law: New amendments let the armed forces temporarily use private land for up to 14 days (extendable) to deploy air defence and protective measures during threats. airBaltic Rescue: A Saeima committee backed possible state participation in airBaltic stabilisation, including up to €30m in interim financing bonds and converting €50m in existing bonds into equity. Housing: Rīga plans affordable rental flats under a public-private partnership, aiming for 732 homes by 2030 in several districts. Culture & Film: Latvia’s Oscar bid is set: “Ulya / Uļa” was chosen as the country’s candidate for Best International Feature, with filming and casting spanning multiple Baltic partners. Weather: Expect brief showers and possible thunderstorms, with highs around +18 to +22°C.

Cybersecurity Shock: Latvia’s Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD) says a major cyberattack stole personal data of 1.2 million people and information tied to about 200,000 companies, including names, payment details, vehicle licence plates and addresses; Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs ordered an investigation and criticized delayed notification, warning the data could be used for fraud. Aviation & Economy: With airBaltic under financial strain, Latvia’s PM says it’s a “last chance” to save the airline, while Business Confederation head suggests LOT could move into the Baltic market if airBaltic falters. Defense & Borders: President Edgars Rinkēvičs visited the Latvia–Belarus border, stressing shortages of guards and equipment amid migration pressure and leaving open the possibility of closing crossings. Culture & Film: Viesturs Kairišs’ biographical drama “Ulya / Uļa” was chosen as Latvia’s Oscar bid for Best International Feature Film. Environment: The government loosened rules for cutting larger trees outside forests, raising the permit-free threshold from 20 cm to 30 cm stump diameter, with municipalities able to set stricter limits. Sports: Latvia beat Romania 91–46 to reach quarter-finals, led by Nadine Graudina’s five three-pointers and 23 points.

airBaltic Rescue Talks: Latvia’s PM says it’s the “last chance” to save airBaltic as creditors consider concessions and the airline seeks bridge financing and new equity to avoid insolvency, with possible job cuts looming. Border Security: President Edgars Rinkēvičs reports major upgrades along the Latvia–Belarus border, with sensors and cameras expanding but staffing still a key problem. Hybrid Threat Warning: Rinkēvičs says Russia’s hybrid war is already underway, pointing to sabotage, provocations and espionage concerns. Education Funding: Eurostat data shows Latvia spends less on education than the EU average, with spending fluctuating over the past decade. Energy Update: Solar remains Latvia’s biggest electricity source in July, supplying 55% of generation, while overall local production covered about 73% of consumption. Public Safety Campaign: Latvia’s road safety directorate launches a seatbelt reminder signal to tackle deaths linked to unfastened seatbelts. Economy & Demographics: Latvia’s births fell and deaths rose in the first half of 2026, while foreign investment projects in 2025 created nearly half of new jobs in the Baltics. Culture & Film: Latvia’s Oscar nominee is Viesturs Kairišs’ “Uļa (Ulya),” set for mid-September cinema release. Food Industry: Orkla Latvia plans a €5.4m upgrade to expand Spilva sauce production in Babīte. Sports: Latvia opens EuroVolley 2026 women’s campaign against Türkiye in Istanbul. Other Latvia News: Four migrants were detained near Ķekava, and the public is invited to vote for Latvia’s “Building of the Year.”

EU Defence Funding Push: Latvia’s PM Andris Kulbergs says Riga needs about €7bn from the EU to cover defence costs and the economic hit from cutting ties with Russia, warning the country is borrowing to “defend the whole of Europe.” Border Security Boost: President Edgars Rinkēvičs called for adding up to 200 State Border Guard personnel for rapid response on the Latvia–Belarus border, stressing fences and sensors must be matched by fast human action. Drone Threat Watch: Latvia says a drone shot down on Aug 14 entered from Belarus, with Defence Minister Raivis Melnis warning risks will persist and that more counter-drone and radar systems are being rolled out along the border. airBaltic Update: Bondholders backed capitalising interest payments on the airline’s €380m bonds, moving two interest payments into the bond principal instead of cash payouts. Internal Security Case: Latvia’s State Security Service asked prosecutors to pursue a Daugavpils separatism supporter who promoted the idea on TikTok. Local Economy & Policy: Latvia’s central bank published its Financial Stability Report in English, warning defence spending and rising public debt increase fiscal-policy risks. Sports: Latvia’s beach volleyball pair Tīna Graudiņa & Anastasija Samoilova won bronze at the CEV EuroBeachVolley in Poland.

Financial Watch: Latvia’s central bank says the financial system is stable, but warns rising public debt and delayed improvements in how public spending pays off could force sharp fiscal and tax changes. EU Funding Push: Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs says Latvia needs about €7bn from the EU to cover higher defence costs and the economic fallout of cutting ties with Russia. Border Pressure: Latvia reports nearly 9,900 illegal border-crossing attempts since the start of the year, with 182 prevented over three days; enhanced Belarus border protection runs until year-end. Drone Tensions: Defence Minister Raivis Melnis says a drone shot down over Latvia came from Belarus, with origin still unclear; Latvia says it will keep shooting down drones to protect residents. airBaltic Crisis: Latvia’s public broadcaster reports creditors will meet on airBaltic’s future as the airline seeks restructuring and new interim financing, with job risks flagged. Cyber & Scams: Latvian State Forests blames a communication failure for a cyber attack; Swedbank warns of renewed scam emails urging customers to “update details.” Culture & Sports: The BFI London Film Festival unveiled its 70th official competition lineup, while Latvia’s U16 basketball team claimed a European title.

Baltic Security & Airspace: NATO jets again intercepted drones spilling into the region, including a Spanish F-18 downing a suspected drone over Romania after it entered from Moldova, while Latvia’s earlier drone incident was linked by officials to Russian electronic warfare. Ukraine-Russia Strikes: Ukraine launched one of its largest drone attacks on Russia, with Moscow reporting hundreds of drones shot down and fires at a Wildberries warehouse near Moscow; meanwhile Russian missiles and drones hit Ukrainian cities including Kryvyi Rih, killing and injuring civilians. Local Life & Culture: Riga marked its 825th anniversary with major public events across the city. Science & Education: MikroTik donated nearly €800,000 to the University of Latvia Foundation to fund research grants and scholarships. Sports & Community: Latvia’s athletes featured in European beach volleyball, while Vilnius hosted an international corgi race drawing competitors from Latvia and beyond. Mobility Policy: Moldova and Latvia move toward easier driving-licence exchange for residents, without extra exams.

Baltic Air Safety: NATO jets again scrambled and shot down a drone after it entered Latvian airspace, with Lithuania’s PM saying a “false flag” scenario can’t be ruled out until wreckage is found. Regional Spillover: The war’s drone reach also hit Romania, where a Spanish F-18 intercepted a drone entering from Moldova near Galați; debris fell in an unpopulated area. Ukraine–Russia Escalation: Ukraine launched hundreds of drones toward Moscow while Russian strikes killed and wounded across Ukrainian cities, as officials reported major fires and casualties. Human Rights Diplomacy: More than 30 countries, including Latvia, issued a joint statement condemning Iran’s executions of protesters and calling for an end to the death penalty. Latvia in Sports: Latvian javelin thrower Patriks Gailums won European Championships bronze after rehab from an Olympic injury, while Latvia’s U-16 basketball team took European gold. Football: Riga FC clinched the Latvian Women’s Premier League title with a perfect 21-0 record.

Baltic Air Security: NATO jets shot down a drone that entered Latvian airspace, with Latvia saying it was likely pushed in by Russian electronic warfare; Lithuania’s PM Mindaugas Sinkevičius said a “false flag” scenario can’t be ruled out, but there’s no evidence yet, as wreckage is still being sought. Local Incident: A small flying craft reportedly crashed into the Gulf of Riga near Jūrmala; one person was rescued and no oil leaks were found. Ukraine War Fallout: Ukraine approved a plan to transfer captured/destroyed Russian T-72 tanks to museums in Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Denmark and the Netherlands for display and documentation. Sports (Latvia): Riga FC won the Latvian Women’s Premier League with a perfect 21-0-0 record, while Latvia’s U-16 boys won European basketball gold in Romania. Culture & Community: India’s 80th Independence Day featured the “Suryapath Tiranga” global flag relay that included Latvia among Indian missions abroad. Religion: Live coverage continued from the Aglona Basilica pilgrimage for the Assumption celebrations.

Baltic Air Policing: NATO jets shot down a foreign drone after it entered Latvian airspace near the Russian border, with Latvia’s defense ministry saying it was likely pushed off course by Russian electronic warfare; air alerts went out in several eastern municipalities before being lifted, and authorities launched a search for wreckage near Rugāji in Balvi district. Counter-Drone Testing: Latvia tested interceptor drone and counter-drone systems during NATO Baltic Trust 26 at the Sēlija training ground, with about 650 participants and industry partners trialing how detection and interception can work together. Ukraine War Spillover: Ukraine approved a plan to transfer captured, destroyed Russian T-72 tanks to museums in Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Denmark and the Netherlands, aiming to document the war’s impact. Ust-Luga Drone Attacks: Amid the same broader drone pressure, reports said fires were sparked at Russia’s Baltic Sea export port of Ust-Luga after drone strikes, while Latvia and Finland also took precautionary steps against drone threats. Fact Check: A viral claim that Euronews reported a “Ukrainian gunman” killed NATO soldiers in Latvia during an exercise was denied as false. Diplomatic Ripples: On India’s 80th Independence Day, Latvia’s foreign ministry joined global greetings, as messages increasingly highlight technology, manufacturing and strategic partnerships.

NATO Air Policing: NATO jets shot down a foreign drone after it entered Latvian airspace near the Russian border, triggering early-morning alerts in eastern municipalities; Latvia’s armed forces said the incursion was linked to Russian electronic warfare, and a search began for wreckage near Rugāji. Counter-Drone Drills: Latvia tested interceptor drone systems during NATO Baltic Trust 26 at the Sēlija training ground, with about 650 participants and a focus on how military and industry can work together to detect, track, and neutralize UAVs. Ukraine War Spillover: Ukraine approved a plan to transfer captured Russian T-72 tanks to museums in Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Denmark, and the Netherlands for public display. Regional Security Fears: Poland and the Baltics are tightening protection of critical infrastructure amid warnings about possible Russian false-flag sabotage using drones. Energy Attack Impact: A drone-linked fire hit Russia’s Ust-Luga port, while NATO action in Latvia unfolded alongside reports of major UAV activity in Russia’s northwest. Local Policy/Travel: Moldova and Latvia moved to simplify procedures for recognizing and exchanging driver’s licenses. airBaltic Finance: The Latvian government is set to buy more airBaltic bonds and extend a state loan repayment term.

Baltic Air Policing: NATO fighter jets scrambled after a foreign drone entered Latvian airspace early Friday, with Italian Eurofighters shooting it down over Balvi municipality; Latvia says the incursion was likely caused by Russian electronic warfare, an investigation is underway, and an air threat alert was lifted after the drone was destroyed. Border Security & Deterrence: The incident adds to a run of drone violations across NATO’s eastern flank, with Finland also temporarily restricting air and maritime traffic in the eastern Gulf of Finland as a precaution. Ukraine War Spillover: The drone alert came alongside reports of intensified Ukrainian strikes on Russian targets, including a major fire at the Baltic oil export port of Ust-Luga after a drone attack, while Russia reported intercepting hundreds of drones over its regions. Local Resilience: Latvia’s Defence Minister said the drone was shot down to prevent danger to residents and that debris searches are ongoing in wooded areas near the crash site. Health Infrastructure: In Riga, AS “Recipe Plus” is building a large medicine logistics centre, investing €20m and aiming for completion in spring 2027 to boost supply resilience.

Baltic Security: Russia may be preparing “hybrid” moves, including sabotage or false-flag attacks, and U.S. intelligence has warned the region to expect possible escalation—while Lithuania is also expanding border defenses with a new 20-meter counter-mobility strip and more obstacle parks. Latvia Border & Migration: Lithuania sent 20 border guards to assist Latvia as irregular crossings from Belarus remain high, and Latvia has been running operations to curb illegal migration. airBaltic Crisis Watch: Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs says airBaltic is effectively in lenders’ hands as the airline seeks about €225m in bridge financing and plans to cut the A220 fleet to around 36 aircraft by end-2026. Cyber & Crime: Latvia’s Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD) suffered a cyber attack that exposed historical payment receipt data with personal details, while Latvian and Ukrainian police teamed up to target crypto fraudsters. Economy & Daily Costs: Eurostat shows Latvia’s household price level is still below the EU average overall, but food and other essentials are already hitting Western European levels. Politics & Fairness: Latvia’s Competition Council fined state forestry company LVM about €7.86m for giving long-term logging partners unjustified advantages. Humanitarian: Latvia is launching a charity campaign to fund rehabilitation for wounded Ukrainian service members.

Iran Condemnations: Latvia and a broad group of countries condemned Iran’s executions of protesters and use of the death penalty, while Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi hit back at France over “blatant hypocrisy.” airBaltic Crisis & Finance: airBaltic outlined a revised business plan focused on a smaller Riga-centered network and a reduced A220 fleet, as bond prices slid sharply and a key 17 August vote looms over emergency financing and recapitalisation. Rail Baltica Cost Review: Latvia’s government says the first Rail Baltica phase won’t be cut for now, but requirements and costs will be reworked after an in-depth review. Border Security & Migration: Latvia reported its first documented case of migrants using a tunnel under the Belarus border, prompting intensified surveillance and cooperation. Crime & Fraud: Latvian and international police teamed up to dismantle a crypto-linked money-laundering network tied to Ukrainian scam call centers. Competition Watchdog: Latvia’s state forestry company LVM was fined about €7.86m for creating unjustified competitive advantages via long-term logging deals. Everyday Costs: Eurostat data show Latvia is no longer among the cheapest EU countries for key household expenses, even as overall prices remain below the EU average. Ukraine Support: Riga East Hospital received another group of wounded Ukrainian soldiers for treatment and rehabilitation. Weather: An anticyclone brings mostly drier, sunnier conditions after a changeable start to the week.

Baltic Security & Hybrid Threats: US intelligence warns Europe that Russia may be preparing “hybrid” operations, including sabotage of critical infrastructure and false-flag moves aimed at Poland and the Baltic states, as Latvia and neighbors step up protection. Border Crackdown: Latvian border guards found an underground tunnel near the Belarus border; 15 people tried to cross illegally and were sent back to Belarus. Air Defense Procurement: Latvia’s PM says anti-drone systems were bought without the needed ammunition—an embarrassing gap tied to earlier defense leadership. Military Planning: Latvia is weighing light combat aircraft to help intercept drones, with Embraer’s A-29 Super Tucano among options. Regional Support for Ukraine: Estonia approved EUR 340,000 to help Ukraine prepare for winter. Human Rights: UN estimates say more than 16,000 Ukrainian civilians detained by Russia remain in custody, with Latvia and the UK pushing the issue at the UN Security Council. Transport & Economy: airBaltic is reshaping its network and cutting its A220 fleet, seeking bridge financing of €225 million to stabilize operations. Health: England’s NHS reports over 100,000 people treated for hepatitis C since 2015, urging higher-risk groups—including adults born in Latvia—to test. Culture & Sports: Latvia’s beach volleyball stars Graudina and Samoilova are seeded for the CEV EuroBeachVolley in Poland, while Latvian artists open “LATVIESHI INTERNATIONAL” in Helsinki.