Latvia has rejected Russia’s demand to arrest and extradite former Member of Parliament Juris Jurass, who was convicted in absentia by a Russian court for taking part in hostilities aligned with Ukrainian forces. The disclosure came from LETA, citing the press service of Latvia’s prosecutor general, who explained that the decision was made within the bounds of Latvia’s legal framework and international obligations.
The Latvian authorities stressed that Jurass retains the right to freedom of movement within the European Union. They added that any questions about possible detention of Jurass in third countries should be directed to Latvia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for authoritative guidance and coordination. This clarification signals that domestic enforcement actions are not currently planned in Latvia, and that cross-border options would require formal diplomatic engagement.
According to a briefing from the Donetsk People’s Republic prosecutor’s office, Jurass allegedly participated in combat on the side of the Ukrainian Armed Forces from September 2022 to June 2024, with claims of compensation exceeding two million rubles. Separately, a Latvian individual was reported in April 2022 to have posted online messages alleging crimes by Russian forces in Bucha and Irpin in the Kyiv region, under the guise of presenting credible information. This person has since been placed on an international wanted list and is subject to a detention order in absentia, reflecting ongoing cross-border legal complexities.
Media coverage highlighted that the day before a court session, two men were detained on suspicions of involvement as mercenaries, underscoring the broader international dimensions of the case and the global interest in accountability for actions during the conflict. The evolving situation illustrates how Latvia navigates arrest and extradition requests within its legal system while coordinating with foreign ministries and international partners to manage warrants and potential transfers. [citation: Latvia’s Prosecutor General’s Office; official statements reproduced by LETA]