I learned from the media that passports without biometrics of Russian citizens are no longer recognized in Latvia and it is not possible to obtain a residence permit using them. What should Russian citizens do who already have a residence permit in Latvia along with these passports?

Yes, indeed, on July 15, 2025, a decision will come into force according to which only passports of citizens of the Russian Federation with biometric data will be recognized as valid for entry into Latvia.

At the same time, after the decision comes into force, citizens of the Russian Federation who have previously issued residence permits will be able to continue to stay in Latvia, enter it or leave it, and they will be given a 6-month transition period until January 15, 2026, during which they will be able to exchange their unrecognized travel document for a passport containing biometric data.