Latvia aims to complete Russia, Belarus border fortifications by 2028

Latvian authorities plan to finish work on strengthening the country’s borders with Russia and Belarus by 2028.

The Latvian section of the fortifications will form part of the so-called Baltic Defence Line, LSM reports.

Along the eastern border, Riga has already installed concrete “dragon’s teeth” (pyramidal concrete structures), metal anti-tank obstacles, dug anti-tank ditches, and other defensive infrastructure.

However, the State Audit Office of Latvia has warned that the project faces risks related to potential delays and the quality of the construction work.

The full Baltic Defense Line spans over 500 miles across the three countries, with Poland's parallel "East Shield" project aiming for operational status by 2028 at a cost of €2.3 billion. Latvia's €303-million investment covers its 437 km eastern border, funded nationally with potential EU support sought in September 2024.

By Khagan Isayev