Latvian PM says Russian behavior resembles 'alcoholic or drug addict'

As emphasized by the Prime Minister of Latvia, assurances that their country is safe and that the western borders are fortified may have the reverse effect of a sense of vulnerability.

"We live next to a neighbor who, you might say, resembles an alcoholic or a drug addict, whose actions we cannot predict," Siliņa stated.

She noted that in Latvia, they must be aware of living alongside Russia and Belarus.

"Russia started a war in Ukraine, and we are acting according to a clear scenario. We have built a land border with Belarus, and now we are building a border with Russia. We are strengthening the military potential of our border. We follow a clear plan," emphasized the Prime Minister of Latvia.

Fighting against information bubbles

Siliņa acknowledged that people sometimes live "in their own bubbles and realities," so she called on the Latvian Armed Forces to also inform the regional press about the work being done on the eastern border of the country, "to reduce people's ignorance, as not everyone reads social media or press releases."

"We are strengthening ourselves to unite our defense capabilities throughout the Baltic region. And these visual changes are already visible now, and they will be even more noticeable by the end of this year," emphasized the Prime Minister.

Russia continues to intimidate the Baltic countries

According to Siliņa, the statement by the Latvian Armed Forces that there are currently no reasons for concern is a response to Russia's propaganda, which intimidates the Baltic countries and NATO.

"For years, Putin has been speaking before 'elections' and trying to terrorize countries around him," added the Prime Minister.

Latvia and its attitude towards Russia against the backdrop of the war in Ukraine

The Latvian government has extended existing restrictions on entry into the country for Russian citizens for another year.

Also, Latvia has reintroduced compulsory military service for men of a certain age to deter Russia from invading Europe.

Latvian President Egils Levits believes that dictator Vladimir Putin is obsessed with the idea of restoring the Russian Empire. He believes that Latvians must be prepared for hybrid warfare.

The first Russian citizens who no longer have a residence permit have been ordered to leave the country in Latvia.