Latvians fighting for pro Russia rebels in Ukraine to face ’severe punishment’ says minister

Latvian combatants fighting for pro Russia rebels in eastern Ukraine will face 'severe punishment', Minister of Interior Rihards Kozlovskis has said.

"This is no adventure, and it will end on a rather sad note," the minister told LNT show "900 sekundes." Reports LETA.

The ministers comments come after the Latvijas Avize newspaper revealed how three National Bolshevik party supporters from Latvia had gone to Ukraine to support the pro-Russia rebels in the country.

Kozlovskis said that the Security Police had identified these persons whilst investigations were under way whether the three are directly involved in military operations.

The minister explained that he had met with the Ukrainian ambassador to discuss the opportunity of establishing direct contacts between the security services of both countries. Latvia could also send its officials to Ukraine.

Kozlovskis said that the Criminal Law in Latvia stipulates severe punishments for residents who participate in military operations abroad. He believes that such persons pose a threat to national security. 

"These people have acquired specific experience, which they will definitely not use for the good of mankind," the minister said.

It's not the first time Latvian residents have joined pro Russia rebels in eastern Ukraine. In July, members of Latvia’s For Native Language party announced that a small group was heading down to Ukraine to join pro Russia separatists.