Latvia Hails Completion Of 175-Mile Fence Along Russian Border

Latvia has completed a nearly 175-mile fence along its border with Russia, a project costing approximately $20 million. While the fence itself is low-tech, supporting infrastructure like observation towers and footbridges is still being installed. Advanced surveillance systems are also being deployed to create a modern border security system on the EU's eastern edge. This new fence complements a previously built 90-mile barrier along Latvia's border with Belarus. The project reflects the Baltic states' distrust of Russia, viewing it as an aggressor nation. This sentiment is further demonstrated by increased NATO-integrated war games and exercises in the region. Other Eastern and Northern European countries are also enhancing their border defenses. Finland is investing significantly in an expanded fence with Russia and planning additional defensive structures like bunkers. Poland has installed electronic surveillance along its border with Russia's Kaliningrad and is reportedly reintroducing land mines. Polish authorities also aim to mitigate migration pressure, noting increased flights to Kaliningrad and Belarus from the Middle East and Africa.