Latvia on Tuesday launched Operation Vilkatis (“Werewolf”), a nationwide operation aimed at preventing illegal migration and strengthening security along the country’s borders. The operation will remain in effect until the end of August, Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs announced.

According to Latvian public broadcaster LSM, the operation establishes an information-sharing mechanism between several state institutions under the coordination of the Crisis Management Centre of the State Chancellery.

The State Border Guard, State Police and Latvian National Armed Forces are taking a leading role in the operation.

Colonel Arvis Zile, head of the Crisis Management Centre, said Latvia considers pressure linked to illegal migration a hybrid threat, requiring coordinated action across multiple state institutions.

Defence Minister Raivis Melnis said that simply deploying additional military personnel along the border would not be sufficient to address the challenge. He stressed the need to combine personnel with modern surveillance and detection technologies.

Under the operation, the Ministry of Defence will provide additional support to the Border Guard, including increasing the number of military personnel involved and supplying logistical assistance.

The authorities plan to deploy drones, helicopters and aircraft as part of intensified border surveillance.

Latvia’s Border Guard, police, Military Intelligence and Security Service, State Security Service and National Armed Forces will exchange operational information concerning attempts to illegally cross the border and individuals suspected of involvement.

The information-sharing system will also cover potential links between individuals and networks involved in organizing illegal migration.

Latvia’s Foreign Ministry will coordinate with Lithuania, Estonia and Poland to strengthen regional cooperation against illegal border crossings and secondary migration movements.

Prime Minister Kulbergs said Latvia faces pressure on its eastern border as part of what he described as Russia’s hybrid warfare strategy.

He accused Russia of using the Latvian border as an element of hybrid pressure and alleged that attacks against Latvian infrastructure are being carried out through Belarus.

Latvian authorities have consequently increased security measures in eastern border areas.

Residents have been warned to expect more frequent vehicle checks on roads and increased aerial surveillance involving drones.

Public Warned About Increased Drone Activity

Drone surveillance will also be conducted during the festival in Aglona, according to Latvian authorities.

The prime minister and defence minister said public warnings would specifically concern foreign drones. However, residents have been urged to report any drones they observe to police by calling 112.

Authorities have asked residents, where possible, to provide the exact time and location at which a drone was spotted.

Operation Vilkatis is part of Latvia’s broader effort to strengthen border security and coordinate civilian, police and military resources amid growing concerns over illegal migration and alleged hybrid threats along the country’s eastern frontier. (ILKHA)