Latvia, which has already provided Ukraine with military aid worth more than 1% of its GDP, is preparing to transfer all of its helicopters to Ukraine.
This was stated by Latvian Prime Minister Krisjanis Karinš at an international conference on the restoration of Ukraine in London.
“Against the backdrop of Russia’s troop buildup near the Ukrainian border, in November-December 2021, Latvia decided to send Stinger MANPADS to Ukraine. After obtaining the U.S. approval for the delivery of these American weapons, the Stingers arrived in Ukraine, just one day before the full-scale invasion. Fortunately, they were part of the solution to prevent the Russians from taking over the airport, which was part of their original plan,” Karins emphasized.
Since then, the Latvian government has spent more than 1.3% of its GDP on all types of assistance to Ukraine, of which more than 1% was spent on military needs alone.
“So, all our Stinger missiles are now in Ukraine. We have a fleet of helicopters, and we are sending all these helicopters – the latest ones are being repainted to make them usable and look good – to Ukraine,” Karins said.
In addition, Latvia continues to train Ukrainian soldiers and provide ammunition and combat drones. The head of the Latvian government emphasized the need to increase support for Ukraine and to fully integrate Ukraine into the EU and NATO.
According to him, all frozen Russian assets should be used to rebuild Ukraine. He also emphasized the need to bring the leadership of the Russian Federation to justice for all crimes committed.
“So, united, we will survive. We will stand with Ukraine … and in the end we will win. Glory to Ukraine!” the Latvian Prime Minister concluded his speech.
