On 10 June, President Edgars Rinkēvičs chaired a meeting of the National Security Council at Riga Castle.
The Council discussed current international security policy issues and their impact on national security. Participants included Ināra Mūrniece, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Saeima, and Major General Kaspars Pudāns, Commander of the National Armed Forces.
A key topic was the situation arising from Russia’s military aggression in Ukraine, international support for Ukraine’s priority needs in strengthening its defence capabilities, and the exchange of experience regarding the implementation of air defence solutions. The Council received information from the Prime Minister and Minister of Defence on forthcoming steps following the defence cooperation agreement concluded with Ukraine on 9 June, as well as on the upcoming visit of Ukrainian experts to Latvia. At the same time, the Council emphasised the need of maintaining pressure on Russia through continued sanctions. It welcomed the European Commission’s proposals for the 21st sanctions package against Russia, which includes restrictive measures targeting the production capacity of Russia’s military-industrial complex.
The Council discussed Latvia’s priorities in preparation for the NATO Heads of State and Government meeting in Ankara, Türkiye, on 7-8 July this year. The dialogue with allies, NATO political and military officials concerning the implementation of NATO capability goals and Latvia’s priority needs was reviewed. The Council unanimously agreed that the increasing investment by all European nations in strengthening defence capabilities and enhancing their industrial capacity are essential for NATO unity and serves as a strong deterrent to any aggressor.
Furthermore, the Council acknowledged the close impact of the situation in the Middle East on security in Europe. It expressed support for international efforts to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and confirmed readiness to provide Latvian experts in mine clearance and explosive ordnance disposal, specialising in underwater operations, if necessary.
Regarding recent incidents involving unmanned aerial vehicles in Latvian airspace, the Council reiterated the vital role of NATO Allied presence in Baltic airspace patrolling and the support provided. This included on 8 June, after a successful visual identification and coordinated action with the National Armed Forces downing a foreign unmanned aerial vehicle in Latvian airspace.
The meeting of the National Security Council heard reports from state security institutions.