Latvia's elite forces mobilize in Daugavpils for Dinaburg 2025 anti-terrorism exercise

The Latvian State Security Service (VDD) is conducting a large-scale national counter-terrorism exercise, Dinaburg 2025, in Daugavpils, bringing heightened security presence and simulated emergency scenarios to the city. This marks the first time such a high-level exercise is being held in the Latgale region, continuing the VDD’s strategy of rotating full-scale readiness drills across different parts of the country.

The exercise derives its name from Dinaburg, one of the historical names of present-day Daugavpils, and is part of an ongoing effort to test and refine the operational readiness, inter-agency coordination, and tactical response capabilities of Latvia’s security and emergency institutions, Caliber.Az reports, citing Latvian media.

According to the VDD, the public should expect to see increased activity throughout the day, including the movement of emergency vehicles, deployment of tactical units, and low-altitude helicopter flyovers. Local traffic restrictions and detours have been implemented, and residents are urged to remain calm and cooperative. “The main goal of this exercise is to strengthen public safety,” the VDD emphasized in an official statement, urging public understanding amid the disruptions.

The exercise is based on a high-threat scenario in which a terrorist attack occurs during a public event, resulting in multiple casualties and hostages. Participants are tasked with executing a coordinated response, including on-site threat neutralization, victim triage, hostage rescue, suspect apprehension, and investigative procedures.

In a notable expansion from previous exercises, Dinaburg 2025 includes the protection and emergency evacuation of high-ranking government officials—a strategic addition aimed at preparing for more complex and targeted terrorist threats.

This year’s drill involves over 500 personnel from a wide range of national and municipal institutions, including: State Security Service (VDD), State Police, Emergency Medical Service, State Fire and Rescue Service, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Prosecutor General’s Office, Latgale Judicial District Prosecutor’s Office, State Border Guard, National Armed Forces (NBS), Daugavpils Municipal Police, Daugavpils City Council.

The exercise also includes three elite Latvian special operations units: the State Police Anti-Terrorism Unit OMEGA, the NBS Special Tasks Unit, and the State Border Guard Special Operations Service "Sigma". Roles of victims and hostages are being portrayed by cadets from the State Border Guard College, ensuring realistic training dynamics.

By Vafa Guliyeva