Kaliningrad's strategic burden: A Russian weakness revealed

• General Kaspars Pudans believes Kaliningrad Oblast is a weakness for Russia.
• In the case of an attack on the Suwalki Gap, Russia would be compelled to defend its enclave.
• Latvia plans to bolster its air defence with the IRIS-T SLM system.

General Kaspars Pudans, who has been the commander of the Latvian armed forces since the beginning of the year, emphasises that Kaliningrad Oblast does not provide Russia with an advantage in the region. In the event of conflict, Russia would first have to concentrate on defending this enclave by the Baltic Sea.

"Previously, when discussing a potential Russian attack in the Suwalki Corridor region, it seemed as though attacks could come from both sides and how to deal with that scenario. However, this is clearly not the case, as the Russians will have to defend themselves," said the Latvian general.

Earlier analyses suggested that Russia could launch an attack on the Suwalki Gap, which might involve attacks from both directions. However, General Pudans believes that Russia would first need to secure Kaliningrad Oblast, which would weaken its strategic position and capabilities.

Latvia, concerned about the threat from Russian ballistic missiles, plans to enhance its air defence. General Pudans notes that the best solution would be the American Patriot system, though he concedes that its purchase costs could consume a significant portion of the national armed forces' budget. Alternatively, by 2026, Latvia is set to receive the German IRIS-T SLM missile system.

General Pudans emphasises that NATO state ships are equipped with missiles capable of countering various targets, which provides additional support for the region's defence. Cooperation with allies is crucial for ensuring security in the face of potential threats.