Latvian Armed Forces chief: threat level in Latvia and region unchanged
National Armed Forces commander Lieutenant General Kaspars Pudāns says the threat level in Latvia and the region remains unchanged, while the defense system monitors the situation daily and stays ready for possible provocations.
Lieutenant General Kaspars Pudāns, commander of Latvia's National Armed Forces (NBS), stated on social media that the security threat level in Latvia and the region currently remains unchanged. He explained that the situation is reassessed every day in close cooperation with allied intelligence and security services, rather than only in response to individual incidents.
Pudāns emphasized that the armed forces are prepared for possible provocations. Latvia is currently conducting the large-scale defense exercise "Namejs," which also involves allied units. In eastern Latvia, operation "Vilkatis" continues, while NATO air policing patrols are set to be intensified during the period of the Saeima elections.
This weekend, a NATO Military Committee meeting in Copenhagen is expected to discuss the alliance's joint response to potential future sabotage and subversion attempts.
President's warning
The statement follows remarks by President Edgars Rinkēvičs, who said Latvia and Europe face a difficult autumn and winter ahead, as Russia continues its aggression and further escalation, including against Latvia, cannot be ruled out. The president noted a rising number of Russian-inspired sabotage, espionage and subversion incidents targeting infrastructure and companies in countries supporting Ukraine, though current evidence does not indicate preparations for a full-scale Russian invasion of NATO or EU territory, since the necessary troop buildup is not observed.
Rinkēvičs said the biggest risks facing Latvia in the coming weeks are tied to the Saeima elections, potentially including cyberattacks, migration pressure on the Belarusian border, drone incidents and disinformation campaigns. Latvia has therefore requested an increased NATO fighter jet presence for air patrols and extended operation "Vilkatis." The president called on residents to vote, support the National Armed Forces and the National Guard, and report suspicious activity to authorities.
