"Russian presidential 'elections' due to be held between 15 and 17 March 2024 will also be organised illegitimately in the Ukrainian territories temporarily occupied and annexed by Russia. Russia will specifically attempt to attract foreign observers and media by seeking, through their participation, to legitimize both this 'election' and the illegal annexation of Ukrainian territories," the Ministry said in a release.
"Latvia neither recognizes, nor will it recognize the illegal occupation and annexation of Ukrainian territories by the aggressor. Latvia will also not recognize the organisation and results of Russia's “elections” in the temporarily occupied and annexed territories of Ukraine. Russia has no legitimate basis for such action in the internationally recognized territory of Ukraine," is added.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly urges Latvian nationals to avoid all travel to Russia as well as the territories of Ukraine currently under illegal occupation.
