Protests in Jēkabpils Against Russian 'Blood Grain' Transit Through Latvia
On Saturday, November 7, at 11:00 AM in Jēkabpils, at the premises of SIA “Amazone” branch (20A Madonas Street), a protest action "NO TO BLOOD GRAINS!" will take place. Its goal is to achieve a complete ban on the transit of grains obtained from Russia and the occupied territories of Ukraine through Latvia's railway infrastructure.
The organizers of the action – farmer and public activist Gundars Kalve along with like-minded individuals – emphasize that this will be a continuation of the protest initiated in September. This time, a significantly broader public response and number of participants are expected.
The event is supported by several dozen organizations, companies, and well-known public figures, including the foundation "Ziedot.lv", "Farmers' Parliament", "Twitter Convoy", "Your Friends", the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia, and others.
"We believe that at a time when there is a war in Ukraine, when Russia is conducting various diversions in Europe, as a national state, we should not cooperate with Russia and should not help Russia export grains through Latvia. In this way, we help Russia fill its budget, which goes to military needs, and Russia uses this money to create new weapons, killing children, the elderly, and soldiers in Ukraine. And this essentially makes us accomplices," emphasizes Rūta Dimanta, head of the charity organization "Ziedot.lv", in an interview with Skonto media group (SMG).
Farmers, foresters, and other heavy machinery owners are especially encouraged to come with tractors and other equipment to demonstrate industry unity.
The event will feature a stage with performances by musicians and public figures, concluding with a joint car ride with Latvian flags. Gathering at the protest site will begin as early as 9:00 AM.
