Latvia Urges Vigilance as It Flags Potential Russian Espionage Disguised as Hiking

Latvian authorities have cautioned that an athletic, unkempt backpacker carrying survival gear may not be a typical tourist or hiker, but potentially a Russian spy or saboteur operating undercover.

In its annual threat assessment, Latvia’s Defense Intelligence and Security Service reviewed Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine, examined China’s geopolitical strategies, and issued an alert urging the public to remain vigilant against potential infiltrators dispatched by Moscow or its close ally, Belarus.

While the actual risk of saboteurs or spies crossing Latvian borders remains uncertain, the advisory reflects the heightened concerns in this small nation, historically part of the Russian sphere of influence and wary of its much larger neighbor. Despite Latvia’s NATO membership, doubts about alliance commitments have added to the country’s security unease.

The threat report lists several characteristics that might complicate distinguishing hostile actors from legitimate campers or budget travelers. It advises caution around individuals or groups who appear athletic but disheveled, maintain poor hygiene, sport military-style haircuts and clothing, carry foreign identification or currency, or are found camping in forests or near water bodies.

Additional warning signs include those who ask locals probing political questions, display excessive interest in or photograph critical infrastructure, speak Latvian with noticeable difficulty, or possess survival equipment and radios.

The guidance also notes that suspicious persons may carry maps or navigation tools yet demonstrate poor familiarity with the local terrain. Moreover, saboteurs might impersonate personnel from humanitarian organizations such as the Red Cross or United Nations to avoid detection.