Latvia just finished building a 280-kilometer fence to keep Russia out

Latvia has completed an approximately 280-kilometer fence along its border with Russia, according to the state-owned company Valsts Nekustamie Īpašumi (VNĪ). The country finished a similar nearly-145-kilometer fence on its Belarusian border in 2024.

Latvia finishes 280 km fence along Russian border

VNĪ reported that Latvia's Interior Minister Rihards Kozlovskis declared the promise fulfilled. He said the fence provides support to border guards who "constantly repel organized illegal migration pressure" supported by aggressive neighboring states.

"The physical fence construction on Latvia's eastern border with both Russia and Belarus is complete," Kozlovskis said. He added that authorities aim to build "the most modern border protection on the EU's eastern border."

Finance Minister Arvils Ašeradens praised the project as proof of Latvia's ability to complete complex strategic infrastructure. He highlighted the high quality standards and thoughtful use of public funds.

Smart technology and additional infrastructure coming next

The fence marks only part of Latvia's border security overhaul. Authorities continue installing patrol tracks, footbridges, engineering solutions, and other infrastructure for effective border monitoring in all conditions.

Latvia has contracted three construction companies to build an additional 41.26 kilometers of infrastructure in priority sections. This €17.9 million project includes patrol tracks through particularly swampy terrain near Lake Peitelis. Workers will construct pontoon patrol paths in wet areas, an observation tower with access road near border Lake Zilezers, and a boat launch site with pontoon pier at Lake Peitelis.

Construction crews expect to finish most work by the end of 2026. Some sections totaling nearly 12 km may extend into 2027, though teams are working to beat deadlines.

The Latvian State Radio and Television Center (LVRTC) is installing smart technology equipment along the entire eastern land border. Authorities plan to complete this technological layer by the end of 2026.