The Latvian government has launched “Operation Werewolf” to stop illegal border crossings from Belarus and Russia, Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs announced, LSM reports. Latvia’s State Border Guard (VRS), State Police, State Security Service (VDD), Defence Intelligence and Security Service (MIDD), and National Armed Forces (NBS) will exchange information on attempts to cross the border illegally and on persons involved, LETA reported. Security forces will conduct more vehicle checks and aerial surveillance in the border region. Kulbergs insisted on “full surveillance” using drones 24/7, LSM reported. Also, the Foreign Ministry will coordinate with Estonia, Lithuania, and Poland on curbing illegal border crossings and secondary migration. The operation will run until the end of August 2026.
Meanwhile, VRS has found an illegal underground tunnel in Skrudaliena on the border with Belarus, Interior Minister Janis Dombrava announced, LSM reports. VRS detained 15 people who had entered the country illegally through the tunnel and returned them to Belarus. This was the first such tunnel to be discovered in Latvia, LETA reported. Dombrava has ordered ground scans along the border to find any other possible tunnels. Earlier, the government extended the enhanced border security regime along the border with Belarus until the end of 2026, LSM reported. In the meantime, Latvia’s state real estate management company, Valsts Nekustamie Ipasumi, will continue building fencing and other security infrastructure along the country’s eastern border until the end of 2027, LSM reported.