Parādnieks: Latvia Should Halt Russian Grain Transit Despite Financial Losses

Imants Parādnieks, a demographic affairs expert and politician, said on the TV24 programme "Preses klubs" that Latvia should end Russian grain transit even if it causes financial losses to ports and the railway. He took part in a protest against the transit and regards this as his duty. In his view, talk of state budget revenue obscures a more important matter: Latvia's security and its responsibility regarding the war in Ukraine.

Criticism of the economic arguments

Parādnieks rejected the claim that halting transit would cost around 300 million euros, calling it hypocrisy. He argued that counting money earned from so-called "blood grain" ignores the fact that "our blood" would later flow along these rails. He also said calculations should take into account the state subsidies spent on maintaining railway infrastructure, and suggested considering dismantling the tracks leading to Russia.

Legal basis and earlier attempts

Parādnieks said that, while working as a parliamentary faction consultant, he worked on amendments to the Agricultural and Rural Development Law that provided for a complete halt to grain transit. The bill was adopted by the Saeima, Latvia's parliament, in January 2018. At the time, the Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry forecast that the decision could cost ports and the railway about 100 million euros.

He later opposed an alternative that would ban only grain imports for domestic needs, with specific product groups set in Cabinet of Ministers regulations, because he believes Latvia can adopt stricter decisions. He said the National Alliance, the United List and MP Andris Kulbergs held similar positions at the time.

Citing remarks by EU judge Ineta Ziemele, Parādnieks noted that EU law allows exceptions and restrictions when needed to protect public morality, public order or national security.

Security concerns

The politician warned that if the issue is not addressed, public discontent could grow, and some people might not limit themselves to peaceful protests. He also voiced concern about what is actually carried in grain shipments: cargo can be inspected and scanned, but in his view that alone is not enough to eliminate all risks.