Continuing support for Ukraine, Latvian government authorises a strategic investment of 10 million euros in the Ukrainian drone industry
On Tuesday, March 4, the Cabinet of Ministers, in a closed session, reviewed the information report by the Ministry of Defence on the acquisitions for the Ukrainian Armed Forces under the Drone Coalition in 2024, as well as the targets for 2025.
"It is important to stand by Ukraine not only in words but also in deeds. Latvia's support to Ukraine has never been symbolic; we provide real support that helps strengthen Ukraine's defence capabilities," said Minister of Defence Andris Sprūds.
The report provides information on the level of support provided to Ukraine under the Drone Coalition in 2024, as well as proposals on the actions needed to support Ukraine's drone capabilities in 2025.
The acquisitions under the Drone Coalition from the national budget allocated by the Ministry of Defence have been approved, with up to 20 million euros earmarked for 2025. In addition, the Cabinet agreed on strategic investments of 10 million euros in the Ukrainian drone industry, with the intent of promoting cooperation between the defence industries of the two countries and the implementation of joint projects.
As previously reported, the combined support of all Drone Coalition member states for Ukraine's drone capabilities in 2024 amounted to 1.8 billion euros, of which Latvia contributed 20 million euros. Latvia delivered nearly 5000 drones to Ukraine in 2024.
In order to fulfil the intergovernmental commitment, it is planned that in 2025 Latvia's military support to Ukraine will consist mainly of new procurements from Latvian industry, contributions to international Drone Coalition and other coalitions, military training of Ukrainian soldiers and dual-role support to Ukraine from other ministries.
Latvia will continue to support Ukraine against Russian aggression until Ukraine's victory.
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