500 Foreign Soldiers Train for War in Latvia, But at Karosta Prison You Can Learn to Be Scared for Ten Euros

The Latvian National Armed Forces announced two of the year's largest military exercises — "Solar Eclipse" and "Defender" — involving more than 500 foreign soldiers. Such numbers only raise one question in Liepāja: do you really need 500 people to learn war when at Karosta Prison you can learn to be scared much more effectively for ten euros?

The "Solar Eclipse" exercises from March 23 to April 2 will focus on indirect fire support and deep combat operations. In Liepāja, you can get this experience every evening by walking the streets of Karosta — both depth and fire support from local grill stands are guaranteed. As local military expert Valdis noted: "I wouldn't say we need to learn infiltration — we've been doing that for years in Riga's municipal bureaucracy."

The "Defender" exercises from April 20 to May 15 will train anti-tank capabilities and anti-landing operations. Here we must admit that Liepāja has advantages — our landing forces have been successfully landing on Liepāja beach for years without any resistance, except for wind and sand in the face. Moreover, Karosta Prison tourists prove daily that infiltration is possible even without military training — courage and ten euros are enough.

While NATO soldiers train combat support and reconnaissance, in Liepāja these skills are developed naturally. Reconnaissance happens every morning while searching for a free parking spot, and combat support — every time you try to catch a bus in a winter storm. As local resident Maija said: "If these soldiers want a real challenge, let them try to survive a night at Karosta Prison — that's much more frightening than any military exercise."