Latvia Takes Proactive Measures Amid Growing Concerns of Russian Expansion

Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina has urged vigilance in the defense of NATO’s east in light of Russian expansionism in Ukraine (Wikimedia Commons). 

At the October 6 European Political Community Summit in Granada, Spain, Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina called on European states to heighten pressure on Russia as threats to the Baltic states appear more probable. Latvian civilians are taking the initiative to increase military strength as Russian ambitions to expand territory and weaken European unity persist. 

Prime Minister Silina urges continued civilian, military, and financial support for Ukraine, particularly as assistance is expected to decline following the Slovakian election on September 30. According to the President of Ukraine’s official website, President Zelenskyy urges support from Latvia and the EU for military aid to defeat Russian aggression while increasing European unity.

According to the Baltic Times, Silina emphasized the need for a decisive response to the hybrid attack on the EU’s eastern borders by the regime of Belarusian Dictator Lukashenko. Latvia maintains its allegiance to the Belarussian people and support for their democratic advocacy despite the countries’ foreign policy tensions.

According to Latvia special services, Russian policy prepares for a full-scale conflict with NATO despite recent military setbacks in Ukraine. The Baltic Times records Zelenskyy stating at the European Political Community Conference that “Russia is now considering various scenarios for the coming years. One of them is particularly dangerous,” warning Baltic states of potential Russian expansionism. 

Zelenskyy has urged Latvia to take action against Putin’s aggressive, militant ambitions. Ukrainian intelligence services have notified Latvian officials of the presence of Russian contingents in the Baltic region, and Zelenskyy says Russia is searching for opportunities to “freeze the situation, to adapt” within Europe. TVP World sources predict that should Russia halt mobilization in Ukraine, the Russian Armed Forces will regain strength by 2028 to invade Baltic states.  

The Ukrainian World Congress has warned of Russian intelligence gaining critical information on Latvia’s foreign, domestic, economic, and energy policy by increasing espionage. 

The role of NATO remains crucial to developing a plan to combat current Russian threats and reinforcing the eastern wing of the Baltic region. Although Latvia’s NATO membership provides immense protection, civilians are taking precautionary measures to defend democracy in Europe.

Latvian civilians have expressed support for the military by joining National Guard military training, resulting in a surplus of volunteers by 25%, according to DW. 

‘Namejs’, the month-long comprehensive defense exercise across Latvia concluded on October 2. Large cities, including the capital Riga, saw individuals across all employment sectors participate in crisis simulation training. Former Riga mayor Martins Stakis commended civilians for taking responsibility and exemplifying strength against foreseeable Russian aggression. 

As the ongoing full-scale war with Ukraine persists, fear among Russia’s neighbors, including Latvia, is rising. However, the nation has taken precautions to defend democracy and European unity. Latvian officials must now balance national interests, support for Ukraine, and the collective security of NATO.