How Russian propaganda turns emigration stories into a weapon against Latvia

Russian information space is increasingly filled with stories of people moving from Latvia to Russia, claiming they are fleeing 'Russophobia'. LETA analyzed 1,135 Telegram posts from November 2020 to June 2025 and found that these stories are not random but carefully crafted propaganda tools.

One prominent example is the relocation of Tatyana Chernocka's family. She moved to the Pskov region with 13 family members, six cats, a dog, and a lizard. Initially, the move was explained by bullying of the youngest son and closure of Russian schools in Latvia. Later came news of receiving Russian passports, purchasing property, and plans to open a car repair shop and children's entertainment venue. Soon, the father signed a contract with the Russian Ministry of Defence, and the son began military service. In June, Tatyana sat at a table with the head of Rossotrudnichestvo, Igor Chaika.

The analysis reveals two contradictory narratives: people are portrayed both as 'victims' of Latvia (forced out, deported) and as 'heroes' who consciously chose Russia. Both versions are used in parallel.

Latvian State Security Service (VDD) has warned for years about Russia's 'compatriot policy'. In its 2020 report, VDD explained that Rossotrudnichestvo is not just a cultural agency but an institution organizing and financing Russia's interests abroad. In 2024, VDD noted that the agency promotes relocation to Russia, including via a digital platform 'Rodina' created with TASS.

The Telegram channel 'Put Domoi' (The Way Home) serves not only propaganda but also practical help: it provides document forms, contacts, and instructions for relocation. This attracts even those uninterested in ideology, but alongside practical information, they receive the message that Latvia humiliates Russian speakers.

In May, Russia adopted a law allowing the president to decide on the use of armed forces outside the country to protect Russian citizens. Although formally not directed at the Baltics, propaganda already uses it to create a picture: Latvia oppresses, Russia protects. This law, combined with emigration stories, forms a three-part structure: first, an 'oppressed compatriot' is created, then Russia presents itself as defender, and now the law allows armed protection.

LETA's dataset identified 39 individuals and families, with at least 33 directly linked to relocation from Latvia. Several people had lived in other Western countries before moving to Russia. These stories are used as an argument against Latvia and in favor of Russia, turning personal biographies into tools of political propaganda.