It seems that soon Evika Silina will have to take on the duties of the Minister of Defense as well.
As previously reported, the parliamentary opposition is gathering signatures for an initiative to express no confidence in the Minister of Defense. Meanwhile, rumors are intensifying in the corridors of power that Andris Spruds ('Progressives') may resign on his own, without waiting for the opposition initiative to be considered and the 'after-action review' in the Saeima. This is indirectly indicated by the statements of Prime Minister Evika Silina, who has been critical of the defense minister for the second day following the drone incident in Latgale. The actions of the minister were assessed extremely negatively by the chairman of the Saeima National Security Commission, Ainars Latkovskis, after an emergency meeting.
It seems that the 'hero of the day' Andris Spruds has come to terms with his fate. At least, that is the impression created after his calm interview this morning:
"Drones need to be shot down – this is primarily the responsibility of the commander of the armed forces and mine as a political leader...
I take full responsibility. Therefore, I respect the opposition's proposal [to demand my resignation] and will respect the Saeima's decision in this situation," he stated in an interview with Latvian TV, adding that the drones likely came from Ukraine.
The pressure on Spruds to resign is increasing, and it is likely that on Monday, after the coalition council meeting, his resignation may happen.
