Bunkers, ditches and minefields: Latvia is strengthening its defense on the border with Russia
Kyiv • UNN
Construction of the first line of fortifications on the NATO border with Russia and Belarus has begun in eastern Latvia. The 'Baltic Defense Line' project involves the creation of anti-tank ditches, fences and bunkers to strengthen border defense.
In the east of Latvia, construction of the first line of fortifications on the NATO border with Russia and Belarus has begun. As part of this project, the country has strengthened its border defense. This was reported by Euronews.
Details
The Baltic Defense Line project involves the construction of anti-tank ditches, hedgehogs and barbed wire fencing on the border with Russia. A network of bunkers is also to be built.
The Alliance agreed on this project back in January of this year. In the long run, the Baltic Defense Line is to be integrated into a single system with similar complexes along the Polish border, known as the Eastern Shield. The first bunkers in Latvia are expected to be ready early next year.
These barriers were used during the Second World War. They can still be seen here and there in European forests. They may look outdated, but unfortunately, in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine, they are still effective
Addendum
Latvia emphasizes that concrete structures and barriers are manufactured at its own plant near Daugavpils. Later, it is planned to reinforce the defenses with minefields.
However, a separate problem was the coordination of construction with landowners, as a large part of the border areas are privately owned.
Recall
Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have agreed to create a joint Baltic defense zone on their eastern borders with Russia and Belarus to deter and protect against military threats.