Latvia is planning to provide Ukraine with one million euros worth of drones of its own production in the near future. Another military aid package worth more than €20 million is also scheduled for April. This was reported by the website of the Latvian Cabinet of Ministers, citing a statement by Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina after a meeting with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal.
It is noted that a new package of military assistance to Ukraine is scheduled for April. It is planned to transfer material and technical means, including weapons and ammunition worth €22.2 million from the reserve of the National Armed Forces. This package of support will primarily include ammunition, explosives and weapons, as well as transport and personal and support equipment.
"Latvia assists Ukraine both bilaterally and within the framework of international organisations. Latvia's total support for Ukraine this year will reach €850 million, and with the announcement of the April military support package, total military support will reach €392 million," the statement said.
In addition, in 2024, the Latvian government's support for Ukraine will exceed €200 million, while military support will amount to approximately 0.25% of Latvia's GDP, or approximately €112 million. Latvia intends to continue this annual support in 2025 and 2026.
"At the same time, we are working with Latvian entrepreneurs to develop the drone manufacturing industry in Latvia. Currently, we are completing cargoes to Ukraine with Latvian-made drones to deliver them in the near future. We will soon send the first drones worth a million euros to Ukraine. Latvia plans to allocate at least €10 million in 2024 as part of the drone coalition," the Cabinet added.
In addition, at the Czech initiative, Latvia will provide funding for the purchase of 155mm artillery shells for a total of about €10 million.
"Latvian society supports Ukraine because we see ourselves in Ukraine. We remember our fight against the evil of the Soviet Empire, and we know the evil of modern Russia very well. Ukraine is in a war for values - for freedom, democracy, and the right of the Ukrainian people to preserve their identity. Therefore, support for Ukraine is natural and taken for granted in our society. Ukraine can rely on Latvia until its victory and a just peace," said Prime Minister Evika Silina.