The situation could lead to an open military conflict in Ukraine

Rajev acknowledged that Russia’s rhetoric and actions, as well as Western responses, suggested that the situation could lead to an open military conflict. “This conflict, if it is likely to happen, will be on Ukrainian territory. This will not happen to us. Therefore, there is no need to increase the combat readiness of our units due to the fact that any conflicts could take place here, ”Rajev said.

According to him, Latvia’s assistance to Ukraine will be limited to non-military support. “Because the military – I do not think we are able to send a unit or any force that would significantly help Ukraine to repel a possible Russian attack. We do not have a weapon system that would significantly help Ukraine or that they lack, “Rajev said.

NATO’s actions in the event of an armed conflict are also unclear, as Ukraine is not a member of NATO.

At present, there is no indication of a military conflict in the territory of Latvia. At the same time, Rajev pointed to statements by Russian officials that caused concern: “I think Russia is preparing the ground for defending its interests, including by military means.”

Rajev drew attention to the fact that Russia would not dare to touch on the issue of NATO’s current membership in the alliance in its demands to the West. “They do not claim to have more influence in NATO,” he added.

According to the expert, the Baltic States can rely on NATO.

CONTEXT:

Russia has sent several military units to the border zone with Ukraine, according to Western intelligence services. Ukraine also has evidence that Russia has begun to adapt its commercial air and rail systems to military purposes.

Meanwhile, Western countries have repeatedly warned Moscow not to escalate tensions in the region.

Russia, on the other hand told methat the West is expected to provide legal guarantees of security, including NATO’s promise not to pursue enlargement, to exclude Ukraine and other countries from the Alliance, and to renounce any hostilities in Ukraine, Eastern Europe, the Caucasus and Central Asia.

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