France Sends Ships to Mediterranean Sea — Liepāja Rejoices That Our Canal Is Safe

France this week decided to show off its might by sending a helicopter carrier and frigate to the Mediterranean Sea. This move has raised questions in Liepāja: is it really that complicated to manage waters without constant military presence?

Local sailor Jānis Krasts commented: "The French are sailing around there with their ships like it's their first time through Karosta canal — with full drama and nervous movements. We have a bridge that divides our city here, but there's never been such a circus."

While French military representatives explain about "strengthened presence in the region," Liepāja port workers remind that in our waters you can safely swim even without helicopters overhead. "People from Riga are scared of our storms," adds a local captain, "but not because we need warships."

France has previously sent similar ships to Lebanon's coast "as a precaution," which raises questions in Liepāja: wouldn't it be easier to simply not get involved in conflicts located thousands of kilometers away? Our Karosta has proven that even military heritage can find more peaceful applications.