SIA “Izdevniecība “Dienas bizness”” has secured funding from the European Union’s Recovery and Resilience Facility to modernize its digital infrastructure. The publisher signed contract No. 2.2.1.5.i.0/1/24/A/CFLA/004 with the Central Finance and Contracting Agency (CFLA) on January 9, 2025, to support the digital transformation of its media brands, Daily business and Daily journals, as reported by Day.
Geopolitical Tensions and Energy Truce
The modernization project coincides with heightened international scrutiny over U.S.-Russia energy relations. U.S. President Donald Trump recently announced that Russia agreed to supply diesel to global markets to lower fuel prices, leading his administration to temporarily lift sanctions on Russian fuel. This move has drawn sharp criticism from international figures, including former U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who posted on Facebook: It is disgusting that the US is now lifting sanctions on Russian fuel, and it is completely ridiculous to blame Ukraine for the price hike, which apparently started with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
In response to the shifting landscape, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy commented on Russia’s ongoing aggression at the Warsaw Security Forum. Regarding the energy truce announced by Trump, Zelenskyy noted: Putin does not read “Truth Social”, and his “Shahed” drones operate according to other instructions.
While Ukraine has expressed a willingness to observe an energy truce to protect its own infrastructure, Zelenskyy emphasized that Russia must reciprocate by halting strikes on critical facilities. He added, Our offer is fair and clear – we are ready to respect an energy ceasefire if Russia is ready to do the same.
However, reports from CNN and Financial Times indicate that Washington has privately warned Kyiv that if it continues strikes on Russian energy assets, the U.S. may halt intelligence sharing and European-funded weapons procurement for Ukraine. Meanwhile, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis has urged the administration to reconsider its approach, stating: If President Trump wants to ease tensions in energy supplies, first, he must sort out the situation in Iran and, second, admit that Vladimir Putin, not Zelensky, started this war.
Digital Modernization Project Goals
The project aims to align the publisher’s platforms with contemporary media consumption habits by bridging the gap between digital and print content. According to the agreement, the company is committed to specific milestones over the next eighteen months. By June 30, 2025, the organization must implement two new Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems. Following this, the publisher is tasked with launching two mobile applications and two Smart TV applications by June 30, 2026. This phase also includes expanding the functionality of existing platforms, specifically the Day subscription system (DAS).
Context of Media Sector Support
The funding is part of a broader initiative titled "Modernization of processes for media sector companies," which is designed to assist Latvian media outlets in adapting to a changing technological landscape. By investing in digital tools, the publisher seeks to improve interaction between its digital and print offerings, ensuring that its subscription and content delivery systems remain functional and accessible to modern audiences. European leaders have meanwhile called for increased regional support for Ukraine, warning that additional revenue for Moscow undermines the efficacy of existing sanctions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Recovery and Resilience Facility funding for this project?
The funding is intended to facilitate the digital transformation of Daily business and Daily journals. It aims to help the publisher modernize its internal processes and improve how audiences interact with its digital and print media products.
What specific technical platforms will be updated or created?
Under the terms of the contract, the publisher will introduce two CRM systems by mid-2025. By mid-2026, the company will develop two mobile applications, two Smart TV applications, and perform functional upgrades to the Day subscription system.
Which agency is overseeing this project?
The Central Finance and Contracting Agency (CFLA) is managing the funding and monitoring the implementation of the project on behalf of the Recovery and Resilience Facility.
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