Airspace Threat Over Krāslava and Ludza Districts Ends as Object Leaves for Russia

A threat to Latvian airspace in the eastern Krāslava and Ludza districts, declared in the evening, ended at 19:30. The National Armed Forces (NBS) told the portal Delfi that an unidentified flying object left Latvian airspace at 19:16, crossing the border between Latvia and Russia.

The threat had been declared in both districts at 18:57. Such alerts matter because similar cases have involved foreign drones approaching Latvia's border or entering the country while Russia's war in Ukraine continues.

How the authorities respond

The NBS, together with NATO allies, continuously monitors airspace so it can respond immediately to potential threats. The forces have strengthened air defence capabilities along the eastern border by sending additional units.

The orange alert is the higher of two levels. During it, residents are urged to go indoors and follow the two-wall principle.

The NBS notes that while Russia's aggression in Ukraine continues, such incidents may recur.

Earlier incidents

This year, residents of Latgale and Vidzeme have repeatedly received cell broadcast warnings about a possible airspace threat. Some drones have crashed and exploded in Latvia, and in one case a drone was shot down.

These incidents were most likely linked to drones used in the Russia-Ukraine war approaching or entering Latvian airspace. In some cases the drones did not enter the country's airspace at all, and the warnings were sent more as a precaution.