Latvia shoots down drones after airspace incursion from Russia

RIGA (AP) — Latvia's National Armed Forces shot down two drones that entered the Baltic nation's airspace from Russia on Wednesday, prompting emergency responses at a fuel storage facility in the eastern city of Rēzekne.

Defense Minister Andris Sprūds confirmed the incident late Wednesday, stating that the drones were intercepted before they could reach their intended targets. The State Fire and Rescue Service reported a potential fire at an oil storage facility in Rēzekne shortly after the drones were detected, though officials later indicated the threat was contained.

The incident marks the latest escalation in airspace violations linked to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Latvian officials attributed the breach to Russian electronic warfare interference, which may have caused a Ukrainian drone to deviate from its course and enter Latvian territory. The drones were reportedly launched from the Ust-Luga area in Russia.

Latvia has been on high alert since the war in Ukraine began, with NATO allies reinforcing the Baltic states' defenses amid concerns over Russian aggression. The airspace incursion underscores the spillover risks of the conflict, as drones and missiles have increasingly strayed into neighboring countries.

Sprūds said the military responded swiftly to neutralize the threat, with fighter jets and air defense systems deployed to track and destroy the intruding aircraft. No injuries were reported, and the fire at the Rēzekne facility was extinguished without significant damage.

The incident has raised questions about the extent of Russian electronic warfare capabilities and their impact on regional security. While Latvia has not officially blamed Moscow for the breach, the timing and trajectory of the drones suggest a direct connection to the war in Ukraine.

NATO has not yet commented on the incident, but the alliance has previously warned of potential threats to member states from the conflict. Latvia's response highlights the challenges of defending airspace in a region where the lines between combat zones and civilian areas are increasingly blurred.

As of Wednesday evening, Latvian authorities were investigating the origin and purpose of the drones. The military has not released details on the type of drones used or the specific location of the interception. Officials said the investigation would continue to determine whether the incident was accidental or intentional.

The situation remains fluid, with Latvian officials urging calm while maintaining heightened security measures. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by countries bordering conflict zones, even those not directly involved in the fighting.