The Prime Minister decided not to wait for tomorrow's meeting with the head of the defense agency.
Just a few minutes ago, Prime Minister Evika Silina announced that Defense Minister Andris Spruds has lost her trust. In simple terms, this means that the head of the defense agency has been dismissed.
"Defense Minister Andris Spruds has lost my and the public's trust. I have decided to demand the resignation of Defense Minister Andris Spruds. The defense sector must be led by a professional going forward. I informed the minister and coalition partners about this decision today.
The incident with drones that occurred this week clearly demonstrated that the political leadership of the defense sector failed to fulfill the promise of a safe sky over our country. Society has entrusted the sector with historically the largest funding — nearly 5% of GDP. This is a huge responsibility that requires clear results.
I believe the sector needs a new, professional approach. I have invited Colonel Raivis Melnis to take on the position of Defense Minister, and he has agreed. His previous experience in the National Armed Forces, military education in London, and current work in Ukraine instill confidence that the country's defense will be managed competently, purposefully, and outside of election rhetoric. Our country and the safety of its people are above politics," Silina stated in a recently released statement.
