The Commander-in-Chief of Latvia, Edgars Rinkēvičs, addressed the troops on the day of the proclamation of Latvia's independence. Here is his speech.
On the 107th anniversary of the proclamation of Latvia, we rejoice in freedom and independence. We honor all those who stood guard over our statehood.
Security is the confidence that children can grow up in peace. It is the assurance that our language, culture, and democracy are protected. Security is confidence in the future.
Security is based on investments in strengthening our defensive and resilient capabilities. It is not just about technology. Security is about people. A soldier who has sworn to defend his country. A reliable ally ready to go into battle shoulder to shoulder.
Security is also about training. Let us boldly look at our weaknesses and strengthen ourselves. We will learn from Ukraine's experience and continue to support Ukraine in its fight against the aggressor. And this is not easy at all. Sometimes it is very painful. May eternal peace be with Nikita Slyadzevski, who died in May of this year in battle in the Luhansk region of Ukraine. We also cherish the bright memory of Vitaly Smirnov and Edgar Platonov, who died for peace in Ukraine in 2023 and 2024. Security is also trust in our armed forces, our internal affairs services, our allies. It is resistance to hostile forces and their desire to undermine our sense of community.
We see operational transport with special signals and specialized equipment among border guards, firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical personnel. Behind each of you stands a person who guards the border, saves lives, and opposes violations of the law. This is a person who protects their fellow citizens. Thank you all for your vigilance and strength!
Soldiers, militia members, cadets! Thank you for your courage and service! You guard the border and airspace, patrol the Baltic Sea, and constantly support internal security measures. You care for peace not only in Latvia but also in other parts of the world. Together, you create an unbroken defensive chain—from the most experienced officer and instructor to the young guardsman. You protect peace, risking your health and lives. Commanders and soldiers of the allied forces! Thank you for your presence and for jointly strengthening the security of Latvia and the entire NATO Alliance!
Rescuers, border guards, police officers, and medics! Thank you for your service!
We will protect what is close and dear to us: our family, our country, our freedom, and independence. We will succeed if we act calmly, responsibly, without panic, exaggerations, and anxiety about what will happen if it happens.
Let us stick to our goal! With pride, we will celebrate the freedom of Latvia! And with responsibility, we will continue to defend it! God bless Latvia!
