Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs has called for faster construction of defense facilities along the borders with Russia and Belarus, citing security risks arising from Moscow's war in Ukraine, DPA reported, BTA reports.
During a visit to the Zaborje region, dressed in military uniform, Rinkēvičs was briefed on plans to build fences, concrete barriers and anti-tank obstacles. He was accompanied by the Chief of the Latvian Armed Forces Kaspars Pudans and the Head of the Border Guard Guntis Pujats.
“Given the events in Ukraine, Latvia must be prepared for all scenarios in the coming years“, the President stressed.
He noted that the border area looks radically different compared to two years ago, but much work remains, including the completion of the fence with sensors and surveillance cameras, as well as the installation of concrete and anti-tank barriers. Rinkēvičs also supported plans to expand the border strip from 12 to 42 meters.
The facilities are part of a common Baltic defense line with Estonia and Lithuania, coordinated with NATO defense plans and designed to deter potential Russian aggression.
Latvia plans to invest about 300 million euros in the period 2024-2028 to strengthen its 400-kilometer border. Work on the most vulnerable sections is progressing according to plan, but issues related to the expropriation of property and compensation for landowners remain to be resolved.
The president also stressed that border security is a permanent task that requires continuous efforts.