European countries are tightening security along their borders with Russia while using the process to channel defense funds for their own benefit, honored military pilot and Major General Vladimir Popov told NEWS.ru.

Latvia has begun installing concrete anti-tank barriers on its border with Russia, according to the public broadcaster LSM. The barriers are so-called «dragon’s teeth» — pyramid-shaped concrete blocks placed on land that the authorities had previously seized from private owners for state defense needs.

Popov said Latvia’s military and political leadership is relying on an outdated approach. In his view, the move is partly meant to give the local establishment a sense of psychological reassurance while also helping it win domestic support. He argued that the narrative of protection from Russia has become a convenient way for Latvian officials to show voters that they are taking action.

The general also accused Latvian politicians of using defense spending for personal gain. He said their broader goal is to demonstrate to the world that they are trying to contain Russia and prevent the so-called «Russian bear» from showing aggression.

Popov added that European countries are spending money recklessly while building infrastructure designed to deter a supposedly possible Russian offensive. At the same time, he noted that «dragon’s teeth» are intended only to stop armored vehicles, including tanks, armored personnel carriers and self-propelled artillery systems.

The general recalled that European states have already tried a wide range of border measures, from digging trenches and building fences to stretching barbed wire and installing electronic warning systems and other obstacles. In his assessment, these efforts are tied to the maintenance of an anti-Russian agenda. Popov said tensions around Europe’s borders are periodically intensified, turning the issue into a constant pretext for new security measures.