Latvia issues airspace threat warning, scrambles NATO jets

Latvia issued a warning on the morning of May 20 over a potential airspace threat in the eastern regions of Rēzekne, Ludza, and Krāslava.

The Latvian National Armed Forces (NBS) alerted residents to a possible danger in the area and urged the public to follow safety precautions, including taking shelter indoors, observing the “two-wall” rule, and keeping windows and doors closed, Caliber.Az reports per Latvian media.

Authorities advised residents not to approach any low-flying or suspicious objects and to immediately contact emergency services by calling 112 if such objects are spotted. Officials said the warning will be lifted once the situation is deemed safe.

In response to the alert, fighter jets from NATO’s Baltic Air Policing Mission were scrambled to monitor the situation. Latvian forces, together with NATO allies, continue to track developments and remain ready to respond if necessary.

The Latvian Armed Forces have also reinforced air defence systems along the country’s eastern border by deploying additional units.

Officials noted that, amid Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, incidents involving unidentified aerial objects, including possible drones, cannot be ruled out.

By Sabina Mammadli