Relative to its economy, Latvia is a top European provider of military aid to Ukraine.

The nation, along with Ukraine and Great Britain, formed a military alliance to provide drones to Ukraine and work together on technological advancements.

Last week, while visiting Washington to meet with Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, Latvian Defense Minister Andris Spruds had a conversation with VOA. He stressed the significance of ongoing assistance to Ukraine in their fight against Russian aggression.

According to Spruds from VOA, Ukrainians are struggling for their liberty, autonomy, and self-governance.

The transcript below has been shortened and clarified for easier understanding.

According to the Latvian Ministry of Defense, in light of French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent statement about potentially deploying troops to Ukraine, it is possible that Latvia may also consider such action. What would be the possible circumstances for this decision?

Latvian defense minister Andris Spruds acknowledged the various efforts being made, particularly praising the French initiative. He also noted the pursuit of alternative strategies to ensure ongoing assistance for Ukraine.

Latvia’s position is that we support countries deciding individually how they provide support, for instance, by sending troops. At the same time, if we speak about sending troops jointly, a collective decision by NATO is instrumental and very important.

During your visit to Kyiv, Ukraine and Latvia have come to an agreement to form a coalition for drones. What are the strategic objectives that this coalition will bring to the battlefield?

Spruds: The drones are very important for Ukraine. They are now part of the warfare. … The major goal is to support Ukraine, to supply Ukraine with necessary equipment, and drones are part of this. It is also about developing our own industry — the drone industry and military industry — to have the capacity to supply Ukraine.

Reworded: There is increasing discussion in the Western world about a standstill on the front lines in Ukraine and the potential for Ukraine to engage in negotiations with Russia, or even surrender. As a representative of a NATO member country, how do you address these viewpoints?

Spruds: Well, my response is very clear. First of all, the flag must be yellow and blue. Ukraine is fighting for its freedom. The Ukrainians have said — and strongly expressed — that Ukraine will fight until it wins the war and liberates its territories. For us, the Western nations — all the members of the alliance — it is important to support Ukraine as long as it takes and with all necessary means.

It is up to Ukraine to determine the nature of the peace agreement once all territories have been reclaimed. Russia must experience a strategic defeat in Ukraine.

The country of Latvia has reinstated its military draft. As a member of NATO for two decades, are you worried about a possible direct military confrontation with Russia?

We are constantly working towards improving our military strength and it is an ongoing effort to fortify our defenses.

Currently, we are engaging in a hybrid form of warfare with Russia. This includes cyberattacks, using illegal immigration as a weapon, disseminating false information, and attacking critical infrastructure. Conceptually speaking, we are in conflict with Russia at the moment. However, we must also be prepared for potential military threats. Russia poses a threat, and we must consider all potential scenarios.

You mentioned that Ukraine will be seeking NATO membership after the Vilnius meeting. How hopeful are you about this happening before the Washington, D.C. summit?

Spruds: The Baltic countries, including, Latvia, strongly support Ukraine as a member of NATO. But of course, as was declared during the Vilnius [summit] — when the conditions allow and when allies agree.

Having a unanimous agreement to assist Ukraine for however long it takes using all necessary resources is crucial. In this scenario, it’s a unified effort to support Ukraine. It is essential for Ukraine to be a part of both the EU and NATO in the future.

According to VOA, certain individuals described the drone strike on Tuesday within Russian borders as a humiliating event for President Vladimir Putin. Despite reluctance from numerous Western leaders, what is your opinion on Ukraine acquiring the ability to use long-range missiles and target more remote areas of Russia?

Rewording:

According to Spruds, it is crucial for Ukraine to have the necessary resources and abilities in order to protect itself. Ukraine has the right to actively defend its country. Latvia strongly believes that Ukraine should have all the necessary means to defend itself against Russia’s aggression. The recent drone attack has been a disgrace for Russia and it is likely that there will be similar events in the future. Therefore, we should not exaggerate Russia’s power and keep in mind that they also have vulnerabilities.

Source: voanews.com