Russia will remain the greatest security threat to the entire transatlantic space - Braže 0 7

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), during the meeting, the parties discussed NATO's presence in Latvia and the strengthening of the alliance's deterrence and defense capabilities, including the effective implementation of decisions made at the NATO summit in The Hague, further support for Ukraine, and deterring Russia.

Braže informed about the work done by Latvia in these areas. She emphasized the achievements of the Latvian industry in 5G and 6G technologies, the development of drones and anti-drone systems, as well as in the field of quantum technologies, and called for NATO to make more active use of these resources.

The Latvian Foreign Minister also pointed out the need to find solutions that would allow public procurement to be conducted more quickly and efficiently, as this is an important condition for both strengthening its own capabilities and supporting Ukraine.

Rutte expressed gratitude for Latvia's firm stance and leadership in moving towards a defense investment volume of 5% of gross domestic product (GDP).

Braže emphasized that Russia's goals have not changed: they are undermining the unity of NATO allies and reducing assistance to Ukraine. The minister noted that Latvia takes its security and defense seriously, including fulfilling the agreements approved at the NATO summit in The Hague: this year, direct defense spending will reach 4% of GDP, and by 2026, it is planned to increase this to about 5% of GDP.

"We urge all allies to move towards this goal. Furthermore, we continue to work on strengthening the eastern border, which is simultaneously the eastern border of NATO and the European Union (EU) - here, coordination of actions between the EU and NATO is important. Since 2022, Latvia has invested about one billion euros in strengthening the border," Braže emphasized.

In addition, she highly appreciated the new NATO missions - "Baltic Guardian" and "Eastern Guardian." According to the Foreign Minister, this is an important contribution to the security of the region and the entire alliance in response to sub-conventional threats from Russia.

Braže stressed that these missions demonstrate the solidarity of allies and the alliance's ability to quickly adapt to geopolitical realities and current challenges. She noted that allies are united in their desire to develop a stronger, more modern, and capable alliance to continue deterring the aggressor and protecting every inch of NATO territory.

Discussing the situation in Ukraine, the minister emphasized that the country needs constant military and financial support from allies. To deter Russian aggression, it is crucial for Ukraine to receive air defense systems and long-range weapons immediately.

Braže noted that in 2026, Latvia will continue to provide military support to Ukraine at a level of at least 0.25% of GDP. Additionally, Latvia is providing financial support of 7.2 million euros to NATO's initiative to provide Ukraine with critically needed military equipment, and has also joined the NATO-led project "Renovator" to support the restoration of medical facilities in Ukraine.