Riga – Latvian officials are evaluating options regarding railway infrastructure along its eastern border, but currently see no immediate need for dismantling. The discussion took place Tuesday at a meeting of the Saeima’s subcommittee on internal security, where representatives from multiple agencies considered the potential benefits and drawbacks of demolishing the tracks.
Evaluating Border Security
Parliamentary Secretary of the Defense Ministry, Liene Gatere, emphasized that while rail lines are one factor in border security, they are not a singular solution. Gatere stated that restricting railways is not a “golden bullet” against a potential aggressor. The Ministry of Defense’s broader strategy, through the Baltic Defense Line and an existing “anti-mobility plan,” aims to defeat any potential enemy at or near the border.
Colonel Andris Rieksts, of the Joint Staff of the National Armed Forces (NBS), explained that the NBS has been assessing “mobility corridors” – including roads and railways – and has developed plans for various scenarios. Rieksts indicated that the NBS believes a lack of railway infrastructure provides the most advantageous timeframe for defense in a potential conflict, particularly in the event of a surprise attack.
A Multi-Faceted Approach
Gatere clarified that the anti-mobility plan already includes mechanisms to deactivate rail lines if a threat emerges. She stated the Defense Ministry is prepared to deactivate sections of the track “in case of a specific threat,” but that any such decision would require a joint government agreement. The NBS assessment of rail infrastructure also considers the time required for deactivation and its coordination with NATO and other Baltic states’ plans.
Several Latvian ministries and security authorities have been tasked with providing an assessment by the end of the year regarding the potential impact of demolishing the tracks. Baltic presidents have also indicated that any decision on this matter must be made jointly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Latvia planning to dismantle the railway immediately?
No. According to statements made at the Saeima subcommittee meeting, there is currently no immediate threat that necessitates dismantling the tracks. However, officials are prepared to deactivate or potentially dismantle sections of the track under specific circumstances.
Who will make the final decision regarding the railway?
Restrictions on rail movement would be a joint decision of the Latvian government. The Baltic presidents have also stressed that any such decision must be made jointly among the Baltic states.
What is the “anti-mobility plan”?
The “anti-mobility plan” is an existing defense strategy that includes mechanisms to hinder the movement of potential adversaries. This includes the ability to deactivate rail lines if a threat emerges, as well as counter-mobility measures in the air, on land, in the water, and in cyberspace.
Given the ongoing evaluation of border security measures, what level of preparedness do you believe is appropriate in the current geopolitical climate?
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