Russian propaganda blackens Latvia's name

Latvia celebrates Legionnaires Day today in memory of the fighters of the Second World War. The daily Latvijas Avīze criticises the negative coverage abroad and holds Russia responsible: "The Russian propaganda machine has been doing excellent work since the end of the Soviet Union. It is strong enough to spread views that support Russian interests near and far, and if necessary influence an entire correspondent network and present the whole world with material on despicable human rights abuses. So when for example grey-haired legionnaires, victims of persecution or their supporters and relatives convene at the Freedom Monument [in Riga] on March 16, articles about the return of fascism immediately appear and local counter-demonstrations are organised. ... Latvia does not need this kind of negative coverage in the world, and certainly not in connection with March 16."

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