Fire at Latvian charity 'Tavi draugi' warehouse likely set deliberately by masked intruders; VDD suspects Russian interests involvement due to charity's support for Ukraine.

A fire occurred at the charity organization 'Tavi draugi' warehouse in the Skanstes neighborhood, Riga, on the night of 19 July 2026. The fire was reportedly set deliberately by two masked individuals who climbed over the fence, smashed a window, and threw something burning inside. The Latvian State Security Service (VDD) supports the police investigation and cannot exclude the possibility that the fire was caused in the interests of Russia, given Russia's past hostile activities in Latvia and other NATO and EU countries. The affected charity provides humanitarian aid to Ukraine and its citizens, coordinating donations and assistance. The fire damaged approximately 250 square meters of warehouse space within a total rented area of 1000 square meters, causing physical damage and loss of donated goods such as computer equipment, food, clothing, and documentation. The incident is under criminal investigation by the police. The charity continues its operations despite the significant damage.