Latvian PM Delivers Military Aid, Honors Ukrainian Heroes

Siliņa Pledges Unwavering Support During Kyiv Visit

Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa was in Kyiv on Tuesday, July 15, for a working visit at the invitation of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, reinforcing the strong ties between the two nations through tangible military assistance and a poignant commemoration of Ukraine’s statehood.

Honoring Sacrifice Amidst Statehood Celebration

The Prime Minister attended a ceremony marking Ukraine’s statehood, where she was deeply moved by the recognition of fallen soldiers. The event highlighted the profound personal cost of defending national freedom.

“I was honored to be present at the ceremony to award the Heroes of Ukraine, where the families of the soldiers who fell defending the freedom of Ukraine were also honored. It was very painful to see a wife with a child in her arms receive the award won by her husband, because he fell due to Russian aggression, defending his family and country,” the Prime Minister stated after the ceremony.

—Evika Siliņa, Prime Minister of Latvia

Siliņa observed the unwavering spirit of the Ukrainian people during the ceremony, noting the heroic efforts of men, women, and youth defending their country on all fronts.

Armored Support and Sanctions Coordination

During her visit to the Ukrainian capital, Siliņa also engaged in crucial discussions with US Special Envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg concerning continued support for the nation. Their talks included coordination on the latest US sanctions package, aimed at significantly impacting Russia and its supporters.

“Promised, done! Last year, during my visit to Kyiv, I promised that Latvia would deliver “Patria” armored personnel carriers to Ukraine. Today, I am solemnly handing them over to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Latvia’s support for Ukraine is not just in words, but in real action. Ukraine’s security is also our security, the Ukrainians’ fight against the aggressor is also ours,” Siliņa declared while transferring 15 armored vehicles.

—Evika Siliņa, Prime Minister of Latvia

This year, Latvia’s military assistance to Ukraine has already included 42 Patria armored personnel carriers, alongside drones and other military equipment valued at €70 million. Latvia also continues its commitment to training Ukrainian soldiers, with up to 4,000 personnel expected to undergo training this year. The nation consistently allocates 0.25% of its GDP to military aid for Ukraine, underscoring its dedication to the cause. According to the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, Latvia has provided significant cumulative support to Ukraine since the full-scale invasion began.

“Our peoples are united by common values and understanding. This human connection makes our cooperation particularly strong. Latvia was, is and will be with Ukraine until a just and lasting peace is achieved,” Siliņa concluded, emphasizing the enduring solidarity between the two countries.