Ukraine and Latvia discuss Defence Forces’ needs and support for the Ukrainian military
Ukraine’s Minister of Defence Evgeniy Khmara and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Mykhailo Drapatyi met with Latvia's Minister of Defence Raivis Melnis.
Key topics of the meeting included the priority needs of the Defence Forces of Ukraine, the rapid delivery of essential assets, support for air defence capabilities, and the development of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), fibre-optic-controlled drones and middle-strike capabilities.
Priority needs of the Defence Forces of Ukraine
During the meeting, the Ukrainian side outlined the priority needs of the Defence Forces, including:
- unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs);
- fibre-optic-controlled drones;
- middle-strike capabilities;
- air defence assets.
Evgeniy Khmara stressed the importance of ensuring the fastest possible delivery of essential assets to Ukraine.
Latvia’s security support for Ukraine
Latvia will continue to provide security support to Ukraine at a level of at least 0.25% of its GDP annually.
Ukraine also counts on Latvia’s leadership in working with other countries and through international formats to mobilise additional assistance for Ukrainian warriors.
Rehabilitation, training and cyber capabilities
The parties also discussed other areas of support for Ukraine, including the rehabilitation of service personnel, training and strengthening cyber capabilities.
A separate focus was the development of a strong and mutually beneficial partnership between Ukraine and Latvia.
Ukraine’s experience in countering contemporary threats
For its part, Ukraine stands ready to share with Latvia its experience in countering contemporary threats, including its unique expertise in conducting multi-domain operations, organising territorial defence and developing modern fortifications.
The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine expresses its gratitude to Latvia for its valuable support and readiness to build a strong, mutually beneficial partnership.
