Latvian PM doesn't rule out 'false flag' operation for downed drone
Translated from Lithuanian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A drone that entered Latvian airspace was shot down by NATO fighter jets, prompting speculation about a "false flag" operation.
- Latvian Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkeviฤius stated that the drone's origin will be determined once wreckage is recovered and analyzed.
- Intelligence suggests Russia may be planning provocations in the Baltic region, potentially using Ukrainian drones to disguise their involvement.
Latvian Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkeviฤius has not ruled out the possibility that a drone shot down by NATO fighter jets in Latvian airspace was part of a "false flag" operation. The confirmation of the drone's origin and nature awaits the recovery and analysis of its wreckage.
"The downed drone has not yet been found," Sinkeviฤius told LNK news. "I believe it will be found soon, and then it will be clear what kind of flying object it is, whose it is. Specialists can likely trace the target based on its microchips."
The downed drone has not yet been found. I believe it will be found soon, and then it will be clear what kind of flying object it is, whose it is. Specialists can likely trace the target based on its microchips.
This statement comes amid intelligence reports from Lithuania indicating that Russia is considering potential provocations in the Baltic region. These provocations could involve attacks on critical infrastructure, with Russia potentially using Ukrainian drones to mask its involvement. Such a tactic would constitute a "false flag" operation, where a state carries out an action while creating the impression that another country is responsible.
The incident occurred when a drone entered Latvian airspace overnight, prompting NATO partner jets, launched from ล iauliai Air Base in Lithuania, to intercept and shoot it down. The Latvian military confirmed the air threat was lifted. While initial reports suggested the drone might be Ukrainian due to electronic warfare activities by Russia, the exact origin and nature of the object remain under investigation.
It is not ruled out, what you are saying, but as of now there is no confirmation either.
Originally published by Delfi in Lithuanian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.