Latvia proposes ban on bus services to Russia and Belarus

The Latvian Ministry of Transport has submitted a proposal to ban all regular and irregular international bus services to Russia and Belarus, as well as transit through Latvian territory to these countries. The proposed restrictions are intended to take effect in 2027.

Currently, one regular bus connection to Moscow is operated by the company Norma-A under the Ecolines brand. The permit for this line is set to expire on January 9, 2027, and will not be renewed. Additionally, a ban on irregular transport through Latvian border crossings with Russia and Belarus is already in place from November 1, 2025, to October 31, 2026, with the ministry preparing to extend this measure for another year.

Latvian officials acknowledge that a unilateral ban may create loopholes, as passengers could use connections through Estonia and Lithuania or utilize minibuses that are not covered by current bus regulations. Consequently, Latvia is seeking a coordinated approach at the Baltic state and European Union levels to ensure the effectiveness of such measures.