Latvia-supplied Patria armored personnel carriers will strengthen the Third Army Corps units

As part of its most recent assistance package, Latvia has delivered a batch of six-wheeled Patria armored personnel carriers to the Ukrainian Defence Forces.

The handover ceremony took place during the working visit of Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa to Ukraine. In Kyiv, she held talks with Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Major Valerii Churkin, and the Commander of the Third Army Corps of the Ukrainian Ground Forces, Colonel Andrii Biletskyi.

During the ceremony, Prime Minister Evika Siliņa stated that this is the first batch of armored vehicles pledged during her previous meeting with the President of Ukraine. She reaffirmed Latvia’s unwavering support for Ukraine in its fight against the aggressor and pledged to continue advocating for this support among European and global leaders.

“We are proud to stand by Ukraine with unwavering support—not only in military terms, but also through financial, political, and moral backing,” the Latvian Prime Minister stated.

Evika Siliņa also emphasized that feedback from the Ukrainian military is essential for the Latvian side, as it can inform potential improvements to the equipment based on its performance in combat conditions.

Major Valerii Churkin, in turn, thanked the government and people of Latvia for their steadfast support and exemplary partnership with Ukraine. He highlighted Latvia’s leadership in the Drone Coalition and its active involvement in other Capability Coalitions.

“The significant support provided today strengthens our forces’ mobility and protection, thereby directly improving our operational effectiveness amid elevated threat levels. Your commitment reflects a clear strategic vision and a steadfast stance in support of European security,” the Deputy Minister stated.

Colonel Andrii Biletskyi reported that the delivered combat vehicles will be assigned to one of the Corps’ most effective assault units.