Riga – In a Stalinist skyscraper dominating the skyline of Latvia’s capital, dozens of elderly Russians wait to take a basic Latvian language test as a proof of loyalty to a country where they have lived for decades.
Scores of Russians take Latvian language test as deportation looms
Flashback to when Trump said that he was going to make federal employees to take loyalty tests:
‘Full-blown fascism’: Donald Trump envisions a ‘civil service test’ for ‘every federal employee’
Fewer than six months after a court order expelling the inhabitants of Masafer Yatta from their homes, life in the area has changed beyond recognition. Day-to-day existence had always been difficult in the eight small villages scattered through the area in the absence of basic facilities, even before Israel declared the area a military firing zone, but in recent months it has grown even worse amid the constant presence of the Israeli army and live-fire training. Roadblocks between the villages make it harder for the inhabitants to get in and out, and roads are closed to non-residents. As a result, many villagers have stopped using their cars. As in the old days, they ride donkeys or they walk.
Life in an IDF Firing Zone: For These Palestinians, It’s a Daily Nightmare
Related:
Classified document reveals IDF ‘firing zones’ built to give land to settlers
Ms. Cat’s Chronicles 