Latvia Pledges New Military Aid Package Including Armored Vehicles for Ukraine to Strengthen Defense.

On September 11, 2024, during the fourth Crimean Platform summit in Kyiv, Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa announced a new military aid package for Ukraine. This announcement came after her meeting with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, who confirmed that the package would include armored personnel carriers. Though the exact details and financial value of the aid were not disclosed, the package reflects Latvia's consistent support for Ukraine's defense efforts since the start of the Russian invasion.
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In October 2022, Latvian Atlas Dynamics supplied the Ukrainian military with futuristic drones, plans to start production in Ukraine (Picture source: Atlas Dynamics)

Latvia has been a steadfast ally of Ukraine, and this latest aid package further underscores that commitment. Both leaders also discussed strengthening cooperation between their defense industries to enhance military capabilities. Latvia has pledged to provide military aid equivalent to 0.25% of its GDP each year, with this year’s assistance amounting to €112 million.

In collaboration with the United Kingdom, Latvia co-leads a drone coalition aimed at supplying Ukraine with critical drone technology. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed that Latvia would deliver thousands of drones as part of this initiative.

Since the beginning of the war, Latvia’s total military aid to Ukraine has reached approximately €370 million, covering a wide array of equipment, including drones, helicopters, 155mm artillery shells, anti-tank weapons, and Stinger air defense systems, as well as radars and land vehicles.

As part of the latest package, Latvia is preparing to send M113 armored personnel carriers, known for their mobility and protection capabilities. Latvia has also committed to delivering Patria Armored Modular Vehicles (AMVs) to Ukraine in 2025, further enhancing Ukraine’s defense with versatile and highly protected vehicles for combat environments.

In 2024 alone, Latvia committed more than €200 million to Ukraine, with a significant portion directed toward military aid. The drone coalition, co-led by Latvia and the UK, aims to supply Ukraine with advanced drones and train its soldiers in their effective use.

Latvia's support for Ukraine is driven by both security and geopolitical concerns. As a Baltic nation bordering Russia, Latvia perceives Russia as a direct threat to its sovereignty, especially given its history under Soviet control until 1991. By supporting Ukraine, Latvia not only strengthens its own security but also contributes to NATO's collective defense. Latvia’s actions also reinforce European solidarity against the growing threats from the east.