Kulbergs: Latvia strengthens protection of energy facilities due to possible Russian provocations

Latvian Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs has revealed in an interview with Reuters that Latvia has stepped up security measures at energy infrastructure facilities in light of possible Russian provocations. According to him, increased security has been implemented at the Inčukalns gas storage facility, as well as at other energy sector enterprises, including a hydroelectric plant.

Kulbergs noted that the leaders of Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland have recently received Western intelligence warnings about planned Russian provocations and attacks on infrastructure in the region. The Kremlin has dismissed these claims as "scare stories."

The Prime Minister stated that during a conversation with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, he requested the alliance to improve air defense and increase the number of troops in Latvia. He also asked for the rapid integration of anti-drone systems developed in cooperation with Ukraine into NATO's defense structures.

Kulbergs expressed concern that Russia is not succeeding in the war in Ukraine and its leadership wants a quick victory, therefore the hybrid threat is greater than ever. He acknowledged that any actions should be anticipated, including interference in the upcoming parliamentary elections in October.

The head of the Latvian government criticized EU countries such as Bulgaria for blocking the 21st sanctions package against Russia. This package includes restrictions on 250 individuals and legal entities, as well as on Russia's liquefied natural gas sector. Kulbergs stressed that vetoing parts of the package means complicity in the deaths of Ukrainian soldiers and civilians.

He added that inaction against Russia's "shadow fleet" and its LNG sales fuels the Russian war machine. "Some countries make a lot of money from it. The question is, do you want to make money or do you want peace? You can't have both," Kulbergs said.