Spruds clarified how much the Baltic countries will receive from the U.S. if Trump signs the national defense law

The defense law passed by the U.S. Congress is a clear confirmation of the strength of the transatlantic partnership and the unwavering determination of the U.S. to strengthen the security of Europe and the Baltic countries, stated Latvian Defense Minister Andris Spruds in a media statement, LETA reports.

The U.S. Congress has approved a new defense law that enshrines the Baltic Region Security Initiative at the legislative level and provides funding for the development of military capabilities of the Baltic countries in the U.S. budget for the next year.

U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to sign the national defense law in the coming days.

Currently, the draft law includes a recommended financial support for Baltic security of $175 million (149,175,250 euros), however, the specific amount of funding will still be determined in accordance with the appropriations law.

The new defense law clearly reflects Congress's priority to maintain special U.S. relations with Europe and ensure the presence of American armed forces in Europe. The law recognizes the security threat posed by Russia and emphasizes the need to continue targeted investments in collective defense capabilities together with allies, Spruds explained.

Additionally, the defense law maintains significant support for Ukraine, providing financial assistance of $400 million (340,972,000 euros).

Spruds emphasizes that Congress's decision demonstrates the firm political commitment of the U.S. to strengthen European security as a whole, while clearly indicating the importance of enhancing the security of the Baltic countries as an integral element of transatlantic security.

The approved funding for the Baltic Security Initiative will significantly contribute to the development of the region's military potential, while clearly signaling the importance of collective defense in the face of threats from Russia, Spruds is convinced.

The minister also emphasizes that Latvia highly values the consistent support for Ukraine from the U.S., which is crucial for the security of all of Europe.

Prime Minister Evika Silina wrote on the social network X that the U.S. Congress's decision confirms the significant role of the Baltic countries in U.S. foreign policy.

"Latvia will continue close cooperation with the U.S. in defense matters, both in terms of arms procurement and in hosting American forces on our territory," Silina noted.