Latvia Finalizes 280-Kilometer Border Fence to Enhance Security Against Russia

Latvia has finalized the construction of a 280-kilometer (174-mile) fence along its border with Russia, according to a report from the Delfi news website, which referenced the state real estate company overseeing the project.

The 17.9 million euro (approximately $19.6 million) initiative is part of a larger strategy in the Baltic states aimed at enhancing border security amidst escalating tensions with Russia.

Valsts nekustamie īpašumi (VNI) indicated that additional work on related border facilities is ongoing. This includes the development of patrol roads, pedestrian bridges over marshy areas, watchtowers, and other engineering structures.

Most of the remaining infrastructure is expected to be finished by the end of 2026.

Interior Minister Rihards Kozlovskis stated that Latvia is now installing advanced surveillance and monitoring technologies along its border, establishing what he terms a “modern border protection system” for the eastern front of the European Union.

Finance Minister Arvils Ašeradens noted that the completion of the fence and associated infrastructure would enhance the operational capabilities of Latvia’s border guard.

Latvia has previously erected a 145-kilometer fence along its border with Belarus.

Lithuania and Estonia are also in the process of building barriers along their borders with Russia, citing security issues related to Moscow’s increased military activity and what regional governments refer to as the weaponization of migration.

Finland is also constructing its own fence along the Russian border, setting aside $143 million for the project and planning to secure up to 260 kilometers (162 miles) of its southeastern boundary.

Helsinki has revealed plans for further fortifications, including bunkers and shelters designed to withstand artillery or missile strikes.

Poland has completed an electronic barrier along its border with Russia’s Kaliningrad exclave.

This $84 million system stretches across 199 kilometers (124 miles) of land border, excluding the Baltic Spit, which has long been monitored through electronic surveillance.

Warsaw has asserted that the fence is necessary partly to address the risk of migration pressure, following the commencement of flights to Kaliningrad from the Middle East and Africa.