Integration and Minority Information Service of the Latvian Centre for Human Rights

In this issue:

- Political scientist Viktors Makarovs: Right-wing politicians try to capitalize on pro-American positions, although now this coincide with normalization of relations with Russia

Telegraf interviewed Viktors Makarovs, Latvian political scientist, director of political centre EuroCivitas and researcher of “Baltic Forum”. Mr.Makarovs sees a number of reasons for current rapprochement between the USA and Russia, and believes that the Baltic States as such do not represent a top strategic priority for the USA or Russia. Mr.Makarovs believes Latvia and Russia could reach a compromise on historical issues by withdrawing any material compensation claims and recognizing involuntary nature of incorporation into the USSR. The issue of compatriots in neighboring states is not a priority for Russian foreign policy and it only surfaces when there is a need to “spice things up”. Regarding participation of the US military attache in the Victory Day celebrations in Riga Mr.Makarovs believes that Latvian politicians always pay special attention to the opinion of the United States, while it is obvious that now USA supports improvement of dialogue between the Baltic States and Russia.

For further information: Latvian Centre for Human Rights