Latvian community has some fears for family at home

Explosions have been heard near to several major cities and Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has demanded that the country lay down its military arms, in what it is calling a ‘peacekeeping mission’.

The Latvian embassy in Kiev has been evacuated and citizens of the country living in Ukraine have been strongly urged to leave while it is still possible. The country’s officials have anticipated an increase in refugees trying to enter Latvia as well as potential energy resource shortages.

Guernsey’s honorary consul of the Republic of Latvia is Lilita Kruze.

‘I have spoken to my family in Latvia today and they are absolutely fine.

‘I have no worries but also am feeling angry and cannot believe what is happening in Ukraine,’ she said.

‘I also have spoken to my Latvian friends here in Guernsey and they are worried about their family in Latvia.’

She said that everyone should remain calm, wise and well informed by only following trusted media, as in the following days and weeks there will be fake news, and cyber attacks on social media.

‘The main thing for all of us to be united, support and pray for our friends in Ukraine.’

In recent days, local businesses have been urged to ensure their defences against cyber attacks were as secure as possible, as the Russian government is believed to have a significant stock of cyber weapons.

Tensions between the two countries have also resulted in oil prices reaching a seven-year high, leading local petrol station owners to think that fuel costs are likely to go up in the island.

Evita Bormane moved from Latvia to Guernsey 15 years ago, and last year became the island’s first Latvian douzenier.

‘The situation if very sad and worrying, of course,’ she said.

‘I’m following the news and making sure my family back home is feeling safe and that all Ukrainian and Russian friends here in Guernsey are feeling supported and understood.

‘I’m a post-Soviet Union child and I can sense the fear from far away.’