Latvia investigates whether candy factory helped Russian army

The State Security Service of Latvia is checking information that the Latvian company Pobeda Confectionery, which produces chocolate and other sweets, could have been involved in supporting the Russian armed forces.

This was reported by Delfi.

Earlier on Thursday, there was unconfirmed information that the executive director of Pobeda Confectionery, Olga Muravyova, received an award from the "Fighting Brotherhood" society in the Russian city of Yegoryevsk.

The award was allegedly presented in gratitude for the fact that since the beginning of the war, the Latvian company has donated more than 15 tons of its products to the Russian army.

The incident was drawn to the attention of Latvian Saeima deputy Arturs Butans, who promised to contact the State Security Service.

The Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs told Delfi that they are working with the competent authorities to find out the accuracy of the information. They emphasize that EU sanctions do not apply to the food industry, but that Latvia does not welcome such "investments" that support Russia's war in Ukraine.

If the information about Pobeda Confectionery's assistance to the Russian army is confirmed, the Latvian Foreign Ministry promises to take the necessary decisions but does not specify which ones.

Author - Olena Madiak, 24/03/2023