In response to warnings from the Polish Prime Minister about the possible influx of migrants from Belarus at the Latvian border, the responsible services state that they are ready to eliminate the threat. Training is already taking place near the border. Estonia has also expressed its readiness to help, reports TV3 Ziņas.
Latvian services are preparing for possible influxes of migrants on the border with Belarus, the army has at least 5 launchers and other special equipment to repel migrants.
The Polish prime minister announced yesterday, November 21, that the regime of Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko had transported illegal migrants from the Polish border to a distribution center on Sunday to be transported to the Baltic borders, including the Latvian border.
Taking into account the increased pressure of illegal immigration, the emergency situation in Ludza, Krāslava, Augšdaugava region, as well as in Daugavpils has been determined until February 10. The Minister of the Interior emphasizes that the state authorities are also ready to repel large numbers of migrants. However, due to secrecy, very specific information about plans, scenarios and reactions may not be disclosed.
Maria Golubeva
Minister of the Interior, “For Development / About!”
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“We are also looking at a scenario that there could be more than 1,000 people, I would not like to clarify the figures now. We have developed algorithms for such a scenario as well. How to handle all services in a coordinated manner. There is very good coordination between the Border Guard, the State Police and the NAF. There are regular trainings, including today. ”
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The Minister of Defense explains that in the worst situation, migrants would appear at the border in several places at the same time. Work on the border is currently unchanged. The confrontations at Poland’s borders have highlighted the importance of aerial reconnaissance in understanding the whereabouts of migrant groups and responding quickly. Latvia has both a drone for air reconnaissance and specially equipped army cars that have been converted into water cannons, and can also be accessed in very difficult places.
Artis Pabriks
Minister of Defense “For Development / About!”
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“I have discussed this issue with our commander about the need to do so, as has happened on the Polish border. I can safely say that there will be more than five water jet suppliers for such situations at the disposal of the Latvian Armed Forces. ”
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So far, there are no plans to attract a NATO contingent in the Baltics to the border in the event of a crisis, but Estonian colleagues have expressed readiness to help Pabriks if necessary.
