The President’s Military Council was unanimous in its assessment that both qualitative and quantitative improvements of the National Armed Forces, the enhancement of defence capabilities, and the strengthening of NATO Allied presence in Latvia are essential components of national security and a contribution to the collective defence of the entire North Atlantic Alliance.
“The increase in defence expenditure is clearly justified by the required capability levels needed to deliver a strong deterrent signal to the aggressor state, Russia. At the upcoming NATO Summit in The Hague, we expect Allies to demonstrate, both individually and collectively, their commitment to increase defence investments, taking full responsibility for the security environment in Europe,” said the President of Latvia.
The President’s Military Council discussed the issue of human resources within the National Armed Forces. President Rinkēvičs emphasised that, in order to ensure effective national defence, it is important to increase the number of personnel across the professional service, the National Defence Service, and the National Guard, with the aim of reaching a total of 38,000 service members.
Significant attention during the Council meeting was devoted to the development of defence infrastructure, in particular the “Sēlija” military training ground. The strategic importance of the facility was underscored, especially in fulfilling Latvia’s responsibilities as a host nation, thereby facilitating the expansion of Allied presence and conducting military exercises. “It is important that the gradual use of the training ground is already being started during its construction phase for limited military exercises and unmanned aerial vehicle testing. Developed infrastructure creates new opportunities for manoeuvre, mobility, and the testing of interoperability for soldiers in the professional service, the National Guard, and the National Defence Service. The development of the training ground must continue according to the established timeline, providing our Allies with reassurance of Latvia’s firm commitment to investing in defence infrastructure,” said President Rinkēvičs following his visit to the “Sēlija” military training ground.
During the Military Council meeting, the President was also briefed by the Ministry of Defence and the National Armed Forces on planned defence procurements and cooperation with industry. President Rinkēvičs emphasised that all levels of defence expenditure must be guided by a goal-oriented approach.
President of Latvia underlined that, following the municipal elections, an essential task will be to engage in active dialogue on defence and security matters with newly elected leaders of border municipalities. He expressed his commitment to continue this dialogue by organising future Military Council meetings with municipal leaders in border regions. President Rinkēvičs noted that previous meetings - held on 19 April 2024 in Rēzekne and on 2 December 2024 at the Air Force Base “Lielvārde” - had proven valuable in facilitating mutual exchange of views and identifying specific areas for collaboration between local governments, the Ministry of Defence, and the National Armed Forces.
