Latvia Weighs Partial Removal of Rail Links to Russia
The concept has allegedly circulated since the intensification of the Ukraine conflict. After his weekly meeting with Prime Minister Evika Silina on Wednesday, Rinkevics confirmed that the proposal is under review and said he has instructed the government to deliver a preliminary analysis before the end of the year.
Rinkevics characterized the security climate along Latvia’s eastern frontier as strained and indicated that dismantling rail infrastructure is being considered as a measure to bolster national defense.
He emphasized, “We cannot rule out any option for strengthening national defense and security,” telling journalists — as cited by a news outlet — that any eventual decision would need to determine a schedule and account for the broader socioeconomic impact.
The president noted that he expects to hear the stance of the armed forces on Friday, though he added that substantial debate or conclusions are unlikely before next year, once a comprehensive review has been completed.
Previous reporting suggested that Latvian military specialists regard the country’s three principal rail links to Russia — totaling roughly 1,800 km — as a significant security liability.
Nevertheless, Transport Minister Aitis Svinka cautioned that removing the tracks would freeze all freight movement not only with Russia, but also with Belarus and Central Asian nations, potentially lowering cargo throughput, raising upkeep expenses, and inflicting economic damage on Latvia.
Prime Minister Silina has likewise expressed reservations, stating that any such move must be coordinated with the other Baltic nations, in addition to Poland and Finland.
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