Viktor Guščins released from detention in Riga

The Riga City Court has released Viktor Guščins from pre-trial detention after he spent approximately nine months in custody. Guščins, a long-time Russian political activist, faces accusations of violating European Union sanctions by providing publications to a Russian propaganda resource.

The court modified his security measure from detention to police supervision, while also imposing a ban on leaving the country. The defense argued for the change based on Guščins' age, health issues including diabetes, and his need to care for his 95-year-old mother. While the prosecutor expressed concerns that Guščins might attempt to travel to Russia, the defense maintained that his health and age would make fleeing the country unlikely.