Edmunds Jurēvics, the leader of the parliamentary faction of the party 'Jaunā vienotība', has voiced suspicions regarding Ainārs Šlesers' recent call for the revocation of citizenship from Andrejs Mamikin, a former European Parliament member from Latvia. Jurēvics suggests that Šlesers' actions serve to distract from more pressing issues, specifically the growing number of pro-Russian politicians joining Šlesers’ party, 'Latvia First'. This distraction technique appears aimed at reshaping the political narrative amid rising concerns over national identity and security amid geopolitical tensions.

In a recent session of Parliament, the 'Latvia First' party has presented a draft motion to strip Mamikin of his Latvian citizenship. The rationale provided emphasizes adherence to constitutional principles, nationality law, and Latvia's international obligations, thereby signaling a commitment to due process even in politically charged situations. However, the underlying motivations seem to hinge on the party's political survival in a contentious climate defined by polarization over identity politics and affiliations with foreign states.

Mamikin's past comments on Russian state television advocating for acts of aggression against the Baltic states have drawn significant backlash, with 'Latvia First' framing his public statements as incendiary. This characterization seeks to reinforce the party's position as a staunch defender of national interest. As tensions escalate in the region, how political parties navigate issues of citizenship and national allegiance becomes increasingly relevant, emphasizing the divide between embracing inclusivity and rejecting foreign influence.