Latvia has officially declared two well-known Ukrainian artists — Vladimir Daniltsev and Vladimir Moiseenko — persona non grata. Former stars of the comedy duo 'Kroliki,' who gained fame in the 1990s thanks to their hit song of the same name, will no longer be able to enter the country. The decision to ban their entry was made by the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and signed personally by Minister Baiba Braže.
Official Reasons for the Ban
The Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained that the decision to block Daniltsev and Moiseenko from crossing the border is linked to their involvement in pro-Russian propaganda. According to the ministry’s statement, the artists are implicated in spreading narratives that threaten Latvia’s national security, public order, and international relations.
“In accordance with Article 61, Part 2 of the Immigration Law, Foreign Minister Baiba Braže has decided to include two individuals on the list of persons prohibited from entering the Republic of Latvia,” reads the official announcement.
Legal Basis and Authority
Latvian legislation grants the head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs the authority to impose entry bans on individuals whose presence may harm state interests. In this case, Latvian authorities deemed it necessary to apply this measure against two Ukrainian comedians whose activities were found incompatible with Riga’s stance on security and information policy.
History of the Conflict
Daniltsev and Moiseenko have been listed in Ukraine’s ‘Mirotovorets’ (Peacemaker) database since 2019. They are accused of knowingly participating in Russian Federation propaganda events. Specifically, the artists actively took part in televised bridges with Russian channels, including the so-called project ‘Nado Pogovorit’ (Need to Talk), organized by an anti-Ukrainian propaganda outlet.
‘Mirotovorets’ states that such actions constitute part of Russia’s information-propaganda provocation, which is regarded as an aggressor state. Latvia took these facts into account when deciding to impose the entry ban.
Indefinite Duration
It is important to note that the ban on visiting Latvia for Daniltsev and Moiseenko is not a temporary measure. The artists are prohibited from entering the republic for an indefinite period. The Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that it will continue to respond firmly to any attempts to promote hostile narratives on its territory.
Reactions and Consequences
Latvia’s decision represents another step in a series of restrictions imposed by Baltic states on public figures linked to Russian propaganda. For Daniltsev and Moiseenko, this means they can no longer participate in cultural events, concerts, or other public activities in Latvia. Their careers in the region are likely to face serious challenges.
The Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs promises to continue monitoring compliance with its laws and safeguarding national interests against all threats, including informational ones.
