Drone Deal Bolsters Ukraine-Latvia Ties

President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, recently met with Latvia’s Defense Minister, Raivis Melnis, to discuss ongoing support and bilateral cooperation amidst the Russian invasion. Held on June 12, 2026, this meeting marked Minister Melnis’s first official visit abroad since assuming office.

During the discussions, President Zelenskyy expressed gratitude towards Latvia for its steadfast support from the onset of the conflict with Russia. The leaders highlighted the “Drone Deal” as a pivotal element of their cooperation, which encompasses shared military experiences and strategies. Zelenskyy noted, “We are glad that we can have a Drone Deal and other cooperation between our countries, where we can share our experience with our close allies.”

Minister Melnis acknowledged Ukraine’s significant expertise in aerial defense, emphasizing Latvia’s reliance on Ukrainian support and training. “There is only one country in the world who knows how to fight Russia, how to stop Russia,” said Melnis, underlining the critical nature of Ukraine’s role in regional security.

The meeting also addressed broader collaborations within the European Union, NATO, and the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF). Special attention was given to Latvia’s role in the SAFE instrument, which will fund joint weapons production. Additionally, President Zelenskyy thanked Latvia for its advocacy of Ukraine’s accelerated integration into the European Union and NATO, particularly focusing on advancing the “Fundamentals” negotiating cluster.

This encounter underscores the deepening military and diplomatic ties between Ukraine and Latvia, as both nations navigate the challenges posed by the ongoing geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe.