Preparations for War Persist Among Latvians: Current Developments
In the heart of Europe, Latvia is playing a significant role in supporting Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. The Baltic nation is actively involved in several key measures, as outlined below.
Military Aid and Defense Support
Latvia has pledged to provide military support to Ukraine, amounting to at least 0.25% of its GDP in 2025 and 2026. This commitment includes the delivery of 42 Patria armored vehicles, with the first shipments imminent, and the provision of US-made Patriot air defense systems to help counter frequent Russian drone and missile attacks.
Training of Ukrainian Servicemen
Latvia plans to train up to 4,000 Ukrainian military personnel in 2025, with a focus on advances in drone warfare. This training is part of a broader effort to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities.
Drone Coalition Leadership and Military Industry Support
In partnership with the United Kingdom, Latvia leads the Drone Coalition, established in 2024 with 20 participating countries. Latvia has delivered nearly 5,000 drones to Ukraine and intends to further invest in Ukraine’s military drone industry in 2025.
International Cooperation
Latvia is part of a broader international coalition of 31 countries that have pledged enhanced support for Ukraine, including readiness to contribute to a future peacekeeping force upon any agreed ceasefire or peace deal.
Preparing for Possible Conflict
While the conflict in Latvia remains primarily a war for the minds of its citizens, the Latvian populace is actively preparing for war. Hospitals are preparing to use their basements for war-related purposes, stockpiling medicines and setting up backup operating units.
Meanwhile, Uldis Volmars, a Latvian volunteer who lost his legs while fighting in the International Legion of Ukraine in 2022, is promoting his return to the Armed Forces of Ukraine as a drone operator.
The Technical University is a leading partner in drone development for the Latvian military, reflecting the nation's commitment to high-tech warfare capabilities. Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprouds has visited two major local hospitals to discuss these preparations.
This robust and multifaceted involvement highlights Latvia's dedication to bolstering Ukraine's defense and future peace prospects, as part of a broader international cooperative security initiative.
[1] BBC News, "Latvia to provide Ukraine with Patriot air defense systems", 1st June 2025, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-57037740
[2] Reuters, "Latvia to deliver 42 armored vehicles to Ukraine", 15th June 2025, https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/latvia-deliver-42-armored-vehicles-ukraine-2025-06-15/
[4] The Guardian, "31 countries pledge enhanced support for Ukraine", 20th July 2025, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jul/20/31-countries-pledge-enhanced-support-for-ukraine
- Latvia's active military aid and defense support to Ukraine, as demonstrated by their planned delivery of 42 armored vehicles and US-made Patriot air defense systems, is a significant contribution in the broader health-and-wellness debate, as it aims to secure peace for the Ukrainian people.
- In the realm of science and technology, Latvia's leading role in the Drone Coalition, with the delivery of nearly 5,000 drones to Ukraine, underscores the nation's commitment to advancements in drone warfare, an aspect that reflects in the general-news discourse on war-and-conflicts, as well as politics, given the coalition's international partnerships.
