Latvia has initiated a new security operation named 'VILKATIS' in its eastern border region to enhance border security amid hybrid threats. The operation involves coordination between the Crisis Management Centre, Ministry of the Interior agencies (State Border Guard, State Police), and the National Armed Forces. The Ministry of Defence is increasing personnel and deploying new technologies such as drones, helicopters, and aircraft for border monitoring. Operational information exchange between various security services is emphasized to counter illegal border crossings and possible orchestrated illegal migration. A special border-security regime is declared until 31 December 2026 for several municipalities including Ludza, Krāslava, Augšdaugava, the city of Daugavpils, and Kaunata Parish in Rēzekne Municipality. The operation addresses hybrid threats linked to the instrumentalization of illegal migration by Russia and Belarus, viewed as deliberate provocations against Latvia as an EU and NATO border state. The Cabinet of Ministers plans to establish a special working group to strengthen border control and coordinate with Lithuania, Estonia, Poland, and other regional countries. The Ministry of Justice will review sanctions related to illegal border crossings and residence facilitation.

Latvia has initiated a new security operation named 'VILKATIS' in its eastern border region to enhance border security amid hybrid threats. The operation involves coordination between the Crisis Management Centre, Ministry of the Interior agencies (State Border Guard, State Police), and the National Armed Forces. The Ministry of Defence is increasing personnel and deploying new technologies such as drones, helicopters, and aircraft for border monitoring. Operational information exchange between various security services is emphasized to counter illegal border crossings and possible orchestrated illegal migration. A special border-security regime is declared until 31 December 2026 for several municipalities including Ludza, Krāslava, Augšdaugava, the city of Daugavpils, and Kaunata Parish in Rēzekne Municipality. The operation addresses hybrid threats linked to the instrumentalization of illegal migration by Russia and Belarus, viewed as deliberate provocations against Latvia as an EU and NATO border state. The Cabinet of Ministers plans to establish a special working group to strengthen border control and coordinate with Lithuania, Estonia, Poland, and other regional countries. The Ministry of Justice will review sanctions related to illegal border crossings and residence facilitation.