Latvia’s plans to build a drone production plant jointly with Ukraine near the borders of Russia and Belarus could result in the facility becoming a target for the Russian Armed Forces. This was stated by State Duma deputy Viktor Vodolatsky.

According to him, if such a project is implemented, Russia will regard the production facility as a legitimate target. Vodolatsky explained this by saying that drones produced there could be used for strikes on Russian territory, including peaceful cities and social infrastructure facilities.

In an interview with TASS, the deputy stressed that such risks should be taken into account not only by the Latvian authorities, but also by any NATO countries that decide to launch drone production for Ukraine.

Vodolatsky noted that enterprises involved in the production of drones for Kyiv may be perceived as part of military infrastructure and, accordingly, become targets for strikes.

The remarks came after Latvian cabinet chief Andris Kulbergs announced the construction of a joint drone production facility with Kyiv. According to him, the plant will appear in an area bordering Belarus and Russia. Thus, if threats arise, Latvia would allegedly be able to quickly launch its UAV interceptors.