Ukraine, Latvia Deepen Defense Ties

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže in Kyiv to discuss defense cooperation, food security and Ukraine’s accession negotiations with the European Union, according to a statement published on the Ukrainian presidency’s website Aug. 5, 2026.

Zelenskyy briefed Braže on a large Russian missile and drone attack on Kyiv and the surrounding region. The strike killed people and damaged civilian businesses, logistics facilities, warehouses and railway infrastructure, the statement said. Braže expressed condolences and reaffirmed Latvia’s continued support for Ukraine.

The two officials discussed expanding military cooperation, including work under the Drone Deal, as well as the implementation of the PURL and SAFE programs. They also addressed Russian attacks on Ukrainian ports and their impact on global food security. Braže said Latvia would raise concerns over restrictions on grain shipments at international forums.

Zelenskyy and Braže also called for progress in Ukraine’s EU accession process, including the opening of four additional negotiating clusters. Zelenskyy thanked Latvia for its continued political and military support.