Latvia seeks to extend enhanced border security regime on eastern border until end of year

Latvia's Interior Ministry is set to propose to the government to extend the enhanced border protection regime in the Ludza, Krāslava, Augšdaugava municipalities and Daugavpils until December 31 of this year. The current regime is in effect until June 30.

According to the ministry, heightened security risks persist in the eastern border regions, primarily due to attempts of illegal border crossings. The greatest migration pressure remains on the Latvian-Belarusian border. There is also a possibility of hybrid threats and provocative actions, as well as risks of smuggling and other cross-border crimes.

The ministry emphasizes the need to ensure continuous readiness of services. This year, 6,362 illegal border crossing attempts have been prevented. Last year, the State Border Guard prevented 12,046 individuals from illegally crossing the Belarus-Latvia border.

Defense Minister Raimonds Melnis announced that the Ministry of Defense will soon deploy additional air defense systems. It is worth noting that Lithuania's Ministry of Transport and Communications has extended the ban on flights in 12 zones along the Lithuania-Belarus border until January 1, 2027.