A Latvian court has convicted a Russian citizen for statements made on social media.

The Ventspils Court in Latvia convicted Russian citizen Sergei Khromenkov, who holds permanent residence in the country. The court sentenced him to one year in prison, followed by deportation from Latvia and a four-year entry ban.

The verdict was based on four videos the defendant posted on TikTok between July and October 2022. The court found that these posts contained statements that could be interpreted as justifying the actions of Russian armed forces in Ukraine. The case materials also mention the use of Russian state symbols and statements that the prosecutor's office qualified as threats against individuals critical of Russian policy.

Kromenkov, who was born and lived in Latvia for a long time, explained that his statements were a response to insults directed at the country's Russian-speaking population. He insisted that his words should be considered rhetorical expressions, not real threats.

Human rights organizations have expressed concern about the use of criminal law to restrict freedom of expression. Amnesty International has repeatedly emphasized the inadmissibility of prosecution for statements that do not directly incite violence.

The court's decision can be appealed in accordance with established procedures. International observers are calling on the Latvian authorities to ensure a fair trial and compliance with international human rights standards.