Latvia Launches Operation Werewolf Against Russian Migrant Campaign

Latvian officials have accused the governments of Russia and Belarus of orchestrating a campaign to funnel illegal migrants from Africa and the Middle East into Latvia and other NATO and European Union member states. Authorities report that criminal gangs lure migrants to Russia and Belarus via flights before transporting them to the borders of Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia.

Latvia reports that over 11,000 migrants were turned away this year, with some attempting to tunnel under or break through border fences. Officials claim the operation is designed to stir political tensions and destabilize the country to install parliamentary members more friendly to Russian interests. In response, the government launched Operation Werewolf, mobilizing the national guard and army with support from Finland and Estonia.

Foreign Minister Baiba Braže characterized the scheme as part of a warfare industry. Kremlin spokesman Dmitri S. Peskov denied the accusations, describing the claims as complete stupidity.