Viktor Gushchin, 67, Doctor of Historical Sciences, publicist, President of the Russian Community of Latvia.
Context: The case is seen by human rights activists as part of a trend of persecution of dissenting scientists and public figures in Latvia.
- Date and Place of Arrest: Arrested by the State Security Service of Latvia (SSG) on December 17, 2025, in Jelgava.
- Charge: Suspected of violating international sanctions (Article 84.1 of the Criminal Code of Latvia).
- Basis for the charge: According to media reports, the charge stems from a 2023 scientific publication on a Russian website, which, according to the defense, is not included in the EU sanctions list.
- Pre-trial detention: Pre-trial detention. The Riga Regional Court upheld this measure, rejecting the defense's appeal.
- Maximum sentence under this article: Up to five years' imprisonment.
- Current status: Held in Riga Central Prison. His health is of concern (diabetes, hypertension, medication shortages).
Context: The case is seen by human rights activists as part of a trend of persecution of dissenting scientists and public figures in Latvia.