384 Chapter 3
Participants: 365 Russia/367 Latvia
Outcome (and Settlement): Victory for side A (Imposed)
Fatalities: Missing
Narrative: The Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact signed between Nazi Germany and the
Soviet Union had the effect of carving up spheres of influence in Eastern Europe. Lat-
via fell under the Soviet sphere. A dispute in the previous year resulted in a favorable
trade treaty that the Soviets were able to place on Latvia. With the Winter War against
Finland concluded, the Soviets moved for occupation. On June 15, 1940, Soviet troops
attacked Latvian border posts. The next day, it delivered an ultimatum to Latvia,
accusing the Latvians of violating the nonaggression treaty and demanding a total
overhaul of Latvia’s government in favor of a Soviet-style system of government. Lat-
via was given six hours to respond and ultimately acquiesced to the demands. Soviet
troops entered Latvia, and Latvia’s new government ultimately voted to incorporate
itself into the Soviet Union.
Coding changes: Start Date changed from June 9, 1940.
MID#4103
Dispute Number: 4103
Date(s): January 10, 1994
Participants: 365 Russia/367 Latvia
Outcome (and Settlement): Yield by side B (None)
Fatalities: None
Narrative: Latvian paramilitary forces detained two Russian generals. Russia
responded by ordering its forces in Latvia to go on alert.
Coding changes: End Date changed from January 13, 1994. Settlement changed from
Unclear.
MID#4111
Dispute Number: 4111
Date(s): August 5, 1998 to February 5, 1999
Participants: 365 Russia/367 Latvia
Outcome (and Settlement): Unclear (None)
Fatalities: None
Narrative: The Latvian prime minister stated that his government would unilaterally
demarcate its border with Russia. Russia responded with increased fortifications.
365 Russia/368 Lithuania
MID#2603
Dispute Number: 2603
Date(s): November 13, 1918 to July 12, 1920