Straujuma succumbs to Russian propaganda pressure

Latvian Prime Minister Laimdota Straujuma (Unity) has officially warned coalition partners of her intention to fire Environmental Protection and Regional Development Minister Einars Cilinskis (All for Latvia-For Fatherland and Freedom/LNNK) if he decides to participate in the March 16 Latvian Legion Day events at the Freedom Monument, reports LETA.

Straujuma emphasizes in her letter to the coalition partners that, in order to prevent unnecessary provocations in Latvia and follow the coalition's agreement, she intends to release any minister if he or she announces participation in the March 16 events at the Freedom Monument. Therefore, if Cilinskis tells the public that he has decided to participation in these events during a press conference on March 14, or if he personally informs the prime minister about it, Straujuma will issue a decree on releasing Cilinskis from his job, and the minister will be immediately informed about this.

All for Latvia-For Fatherland and Freedom/LNNK Co-Chairman Raivis Dzintars believes that this decision is a mistake. Instead of diplomats explaining the history of the Latvian Legion, Latvia has indirectly succumbed to Russia's propaganda, said Dzintars.

Straujuma expresses her deepest respect to Cilinskis' professional work, but points out that, by participating in the March 16 events, the minister will violate the coalition's agreement and she will have the right to relieve him of his duties.