Defense
The plan to strengthen the Latvian eastern border involves creating various barriers to stop the potential enemy at the border and prevent it from moving further. National Guard commander Kaspars Pudāns told Latvian Television on March 11 that road digging and anti-tank mines would not disrupt local residents or businesses.
This week, military reinforcements have started on Latvia's eastern external border. A HESCO bastion has been set up at the Piedruja border guard post, while dozens of concrete blocks have been delivered to the Terehova, Pāternieki and Grebneva border points, which can be used to quickly block movement across the border if necessary, the Ministry of Defense said.
The Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued an appeal to avoid traveling to Russia, as well as a warning of a possible terror threat in Moscow in the next 48 hours, referring to a similar warning by the US Embassy in Russia.
A statement issued by the National Armed Forces (NBS) on March 6 calls on the Latvian public not to disseminate messages that could help Russian propaganda.
March 6 sees the Federation of Security and Defence Industries of Latvia (DAIF Latvia) handing out its annual awards to companies and research institutions that have made a significant contribution to safety and security on a national and international scale in 2023.
On Saturday, March 2, Minister of Defense Andris Spruds welcomed the NATO Baltic Air Policing Mission to Latvia in a ceremony at the Lielvārde air force base of the National Armed Forces.
We have witnessed Russia's war in Ukraine for two years. Many have asked themselves – what would I do in this situation? As found by Latvian Radio, many have come to the conclusion that someone else would take care of it, meanwhile, the National Armed Forces say everyone must know how to protect themselves.
Latvia has been one of the biggest supporters of Ukraine since the Russian war began. The State Chancellery has estimated that the Latvian government, public and non-governmental organizations, and associations have contributed at least €650 million to Ukraine over the two years of the war, Latvian Radio reported February 23.
Latvia's aid to Ukraine is approaching 1% of gross domestic product. Egita Diure, spokesperson for the State Chancellery, said that of the 650 million, most of the money - more than 370 million - has been invested in military equipment.
Latvia's aid to Ukraine is approaching 1% of gross domestic product. Egita Diure, spokesperson for the State Chancellery, said that of the 650 million, most of the money - more than 370 million - has been invested in military equipment.
On February 19, in Daugavpils, a joint exercise dubbed 'Pilskalns' (Hillfort) of the 3rd Latgale Brigade of the National Guard, the 34th Infantry Battalion, the Civil Defense Commission of the Cooperation Territory of Daugavpils and the Upper Daugava Region took place, according to a release from Latvia's Armed Forces (NBS).
After Russia's full-scale war in Ukraine, interest in joining the Latvian National Guard increased rapidly. It has now settled, and there must be targeted campaigns in recruiting new soldiers and national guards, Kaspars Pudāns, commander of the National Guard, said in an interview on the Latvian Television morning news program on February 20.