For security reasons, citizens of various nationalities are stopped at the border
Latvian authorities have denied entry to citizens from Belarus, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan due to security concerns and visa issues.
Latvian border authorities have recently denied entry to several foreign nationals at Riga Airport, citing security concerns. Two Belarusian citizens, two Uzbeks, and one Kazakhstani national were turned away, with the latter two also facing issues related to valid visas and the inability to justify their reasons for entry. This reflects Latvia's ongoing approach to managing border security amid rising concerns about illegal immigration and regional stability.
Additionally, it was reported that on the same day, border guards did not encounter any attempts to illegally cross the Latvian-Belarusian border. So far this year, only two individuals have been stopped for illegal crossings, emphasizing the effectiveness of current border controls. The government has extended heightened border security measures in the areas bordering Belarus until June 30 of this year, primarily due to an increase in illegal migration flows prompted by the situation in Belarus.
The enhanced control measures are particularly focused in areas such as Ludza, KrΔslava, and Daugavpils, which are strategic points vulnerable to illegal immigration. This proactive approach highlights Latvia's commitment to maintaining its sovereignty and security amidst the challenges posed by its geographical proximity to Belarus, ensuring that the state is vigilant against potential threats stemming from increased migration pressures in the region.