Baltic Security: Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs says intelligence points to Russia preparing provocations and hybrid sabotage against the Baltic states, warning Moscow may try to test NATO’s resolve as it struggles in Ukraine. Border & Justice: Latvia’s Prosecutor General’s Office opened a criminal case against Belarus border officials, alleging systematic unlawful migration pressure and harm to Latvia since 2021. EU Sports Politics: Nine EU countries including Latvia urged the EU to cut funding to the IOC and other bodies after Russia’s Olympic Committee was provisionally reinstated; the IOC says the move is provisional and not a broader policy shift. Defence & Readiness: Latvia is also tightening its State Defence Service rules, adding a pre-registration option for 17-year-olds to volunteer ahead of conscription and improving selection and social guarantees. Economy & Energy: A proposal from Latvia’s National Alliance would merge three ministries into a single Ministry of the Economy to speed decisions and better link economic policy, energy, and regional development. Riga Business: NORDSPACE secured EUR 1.2m from Signet Bank for a second phase of smart storage facilities in Riga’s Jūrkalnes Street. Weather: Mostly dry conditions are expected in Latvia, with fog at night and a weekend cyclone bringing rain and possible thunderstorms. Culture & Nature: Ten turtles were released into the Ruģeļi wetland in Daugavpils as part of a rewilding project.