Russian MFA Spokesman Andrei Nesterenko Commentary on Excerpts Published in Latvia from Commission Report on Calculation of “Soviet Occupation” Damages
690-29-04-2009
Question: How could you comment on the findings of the Latvian commission to calculate the damage from the so called “Soviet occupation” and on the claims being put forward against Russia, particularly in the environment sphere?
Commentary: The assertions about the “occupation” of Latvia by the Soviet Union and the related claims of any nature, including material claims, ignore the political, historical and legal realities and, as a consequence, are devoid of foundation. An assessment of the events of the late 30s-early 40s of the 20th century in Russia, particularly at the level of the political leadership, has been given on more than one occasion. For us the matter is closed, and we do not intend to return to it.
As to the document you have mentioned, such pseudoscientific and politically biased calculations are counterproductive and can only bring an additional serious irritant in Russian-Latvian relations.
April 29, 2009
