Latvia's National Security Council: Russian Sabotage Risks in Europe Have Risen Significantly

Latvia's National Security Council (NDP), the body that discusses the country's security matters, has warned of a significant rise in security risks across Europe. These are tied to Russian sabotage and subversion, aimed in particular at infrastructure supporting Ukraine and at defence industry companies.

According to Mārtiņš Drēģeris, an adviser to the Latvian President, who spoke to the news agency LETA, the council met on Wednesday at Riga Castle. It reviewed and discussed a military threat analysis prepared by the Military Intelligence and Security Service. Reports from state security institutions on the current situation were also heard.

Russia as the main threat

The council stresses that Russia remains the main military threat to Latvia's security and the most direct long-term danger in the Euro-Atlantic area. At the same time, its assessment that a large-scale Russian military attack on NATO is unlikely has not changed. The council bases this on the fact that Russia's military resources are tied up in the war in Ukraine.

Cooperation and a call to residents

The council noted cooperation between state security institutions and the services of NATO allies and partner countries. This takes place through information exchange and strengthening early warning, in order to prevent potential threats, as well as in carrying out investigations and procedural actions.

The council also calls on every resident to take responsible part in strengthening national security. This includes reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement and taking care to protect themselves, others and critical infrastructure facilities.