Valmiera runs hybrid-threat drill as part of nationwide "Namejs 2026" exercise
Services in Valmiera rehearsed responding to a hybrid-type threat scenario in the city as part of the wider "Namejs 2026" military exercise, which is taking place across Latvia from September 2 to October 8.
A training scenario staged in Valmiera simulated a hybrid-type security threat to the city, involving suspicious men in paramilitary clothing, provocations, and attacks on urban infrastructure. Although the situation was fictional, it was designed to be as realistic as possible to test the readiness of local services for such challenges.
Municipality takes the lead
Unlike other stages of the broader exercise, in Valmiera the main responsibility for countering the threat fell to the municipality itself. Working closely alongside it were the State Police, the State Fire and Rescue Service, the Emergency Medical Service, the National Guard (Zemessardze), and other agencies. Together, they coordinated actions to neutralize sabotage attempts and various provocations.
Heightened activity across the region
From September 2 to 6, the Vidzeme region and the eastern border area saw increased military activity. While Valmiera focused on hybrid threats, soldiers of the National Guard's 2nd Vidzeme Brigade, together with other National Armed Forces units, allied troops, the State Police, and the State Border Guard, carried out tasks related to conventional-type threats in the Alūksne, Balvi, Gulbene, and Madona municipalities.
Broad scope of the exercise
The "Namejs 2026" exercise is being held across the country from September 2 to October 8, involving approximately 12,000 soldiers and National Guard members from all branches of the National Armed Forces. Further details on the exercise are available on the Sargs.lv portal.
