Latvia increases security at dam and gas storage facility because of Russian threat, says PM

Andris Kulbergs, the Prime Minister of Latvia, said that he had increased security at a large underground gas storage facility and a 'hydroelectric dam' upstream from Riga due to intelligence suggesting a Russian threat. Latvian, Lithuanian, and Polish leaders warned that Western intelligence agencies believed Russia was planning provocation and attacks on infrastructure in the area. The Kremlin called these allegations "scare stories".

Kulbergs responded to an interview question by saying: "Ofcourse, the Incukalns, as well as our energy companies and sectors, (and) absolutely the hydroelectric station."

Kulbergs claimed to have spoken with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, and asked for more air defence and more boots on the ground.

He also asked for a rapid integration of the anti-drone systems being developed by Latvia and Ukraine with NATO defences. Kulbergs stated that as Russia faces setbacks in the conflict with Ukraine, its leadership is looking for "a quick victory" so that "the potential hybrid threat will be larger than before", and added: "Anything's possible."

MONEY OR PEACE?

Latvia, which is part of NATO and the European Union and borders Russia, has been a vocal supporter of Kyiv, and an outspoken critic of Moscow. Kulbergs was appointed prime minister in June, after the previous coalition fell apart over the handling of the consequences caused by stray Ukrainian drones that flew into Russia.

He said that his government is preparing to deal with possible Russian interference. Moscow has denied?accusations made by Western countries of meddling in their election. Kulbergs criticized EU nations like Bulgaria for blocking the 21st package on sanctions against?Russia. This could restrict 250 individuals and entities, and tighten restrictions on Russian LNG.

He said that if he did not act against Moscow's "shadow" fleet of tankers, and its LNG sales, it would be akin to culpability in the deaths of Ukrainian civilians and soldiers.

"And some (European countries) are also making big money from this." You have to decide if you want peace or money. "You can't have it both." (Editing by Gareth Jones).

(source: Reuters)