Ukraine and Latvia Strengthen Defense Ties With Joint Drone Production Deal
Ukraine and Latvia are moving from individual military deliveries to joint weapons production, component localization, and testing of new systems, according to statements from Ukrainian officials following high-level bilateral meetings in Kyiv.
Defense Cooperation and the Drone Deal
The discussions in Kyiv focused on advancing the practical implementation of the Drone Deal concluded between the two nations, according to Ihor Klymenko, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine. Klymenko met with Latvian Defense Minister Raivis Melnis to map out pathways for deeper industrial integration. Klymenko noted on Telegram that Latvia has allocated approximately EUR 110 million to support Ukraine’s security in 2026, including EUR 50 million specifically designated for drones.
According to Klymenko, the two sides need to shift focus toward joint manufacturing and the testing of uncrewed aerial systems, while Ukraine remains prepared to share practical combat experience regarding counter-drone operations and UAV tactics. Following the talks, officials agreed to accelerate work on procurement mechanisms for Ukrainian-made weapons and to finalize the relevant contracts, a step intended to give Ukraine’s domestic defense industry a larger role in supplying international partners.
Air Defense and Regional Security
Alongside uncrewed systems, the defense chiefs evaluated strategies for strengthening Ukraine’s air defense and missile defense architectures, with particular emphasis on developing a multilayered counter-drone defense. Klymenko identified significant potential for joint projects within the SAFE mechanism.
The security discussions follow broader diplomatic engagements between Kyiv and Riga. During a previous meeting in Kyiv involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Latvian Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs, leaders addressed air defense requirements amid ongoing missile and drone attacks. Zelensky stated that the bilateral defense agreement establishes concrete steps for joint defense capabilities and co-production, while allowing partners to leverage Ukraine’s wartime expertise.
Sanctions and Next Steps
Bilateral talks have also addressed economic pressure against Moscow, with Ukrainian leadership urging tougher sanctions targeting the Russian shadow fleet utilized for oil transport and sanctions evasion. The new center-right coalition government in Latvia, led by Kulbergs following his confirmation by lawmakers, has pledged continued military and political support for Kyiv.
