On 3 December 2025, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused authorities in the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania) and Moldova of enacting 'racist' laws and discriminating against the Russian population, reviving narratives previously used by Moscow to justify invasions in Ukraine. Lavrov alleged that the OSCE's ODIHR is neglecting its duties and spreading false reports about Russia’s alleged war crimes, despite ample documentation of these crimes. The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) warned these statements prepare a psychological and informational groundwork consistent with Russia's 'Phase Zero' strategy, potentially setting conditions for future aggression against Moldova and NATO Baltic member states. Additionally, ISW noted Russian intelligence efforts to recruit low-income residents and youth in Latvia and Estonia to amplify pro-Kremlin narratives via messaging apps and online platforms. This messaging and influence campaign resembles the Kremlin’s pre-invasion rhetoric and likely aims to legitimize potential hostile actions.

On 3 December 2025, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused authorities in the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania) and Moldova of enacting 'racist' laws and discriminating against the Russian population, reviving narratives previously used by Moscow to justify invasions in Ukraine. Lavrov alleged that the OSCE's ODIHR is neglecting its duties and spreading false reports about Russia’s alleged war crimes, despite ample documentation of these crimes. The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) warned these statements prepare a psychological and informational groundwork consistent with Russia's 'Phase Zero' strategy, potentially setting conditions for future aggression against Moldova and NATO Baltic member states. Additionally, ISW noted Russian intelligence efforts to recruit low-income residents and youth in Latvia and Estonia to amplify pro-Kremlin narratives via messaging apps and online platforms. This messaging and influence campaign resembles the Kremlin’s pre-invasion rhetoric and likely aims to legitimize potential hostile actions.