Russia and Latvia

<p>This book explores Russia’s relations with Latvia arguing that Latvia with a higher proportion of Russian speakers than other Baltic states is especially vulnerable to Russia’s “sharp power”. The book highlights how authoritarian and totalitarian regimes are unable to exercise soft power based on the attractiveness of the country's culture and values which would help them gain the favour of the audience of the target countries but instead as in the case of Russia use public diplomacy compatriot policy media policy propaganda and disinformation to produce a destructive effect distorting the democracies of target countries and increasing national security risks. The book provides in-depth detail on how Russia is making use of this “sharp power” in Latvia examines the consequences and assesses the dangers for the future.</p>