On 24 February, marking the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, President Edgars Rinkēvičs arrived in Ukraine on a working visit to reaffirm Latvia’s unwavering support for Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. The President of Latvia participated in the "Support Ukraine" international summit, organised by Ukraine, where he delivered a speech. President Rinkēvičs met with President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy, alongside the Presidents of Lithuania and Finland, and the Prime Ministers of Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden.
In his address, President Rinkēvičs reiterated Latvia’s support for Ukraine and its pursuit of a just and lasting peace. "Ukraine has demonstrated remarkable resilience to the world—fighting for what is right, for its people. This struggle has come at a high cost. Countless civilian lives lost, schools and hospitals destroyed, people abducted, tortured, and taken as prisoners of war. Thousands of Ukrainian children have been kidnapped and forcibly taken to Russia or occupied territories. This must not be in vain. Ukraine deserves a just peace.
Ukraine must be at the negotiating table—not on it. Europe must also be present at the negotiating table. We must ensure that Ukraine remains strong and independent; Russia is contained and deterred; borders are not changed by force; Europe takes full responsibility for its own security by investing in its defence; Ukraine, the United States, NATO, and the European Union allies must work together to achieve lasting peace,” said E. Rinkēvičs.
During his discussion with the President of Ukraine, President Rinkēvičs reaffirmed Latvia’s long-term support for Ukraine. “Latvia is allocating 0.25% of its GDP to military aid for Ukraine. The Baltic states and Nordic countries have jointly committed to increasing military assistance to Ukraine by providing training and equipment for a brigade-sized unit to strengthen the capacity of Ukraine’s armed forces,” emphasized E. Rinkēvičs. Furthermore, the NB8 countries will continue investing in Ukraine’s air defence capabilities and the development of its defence industry. At the same time, President Rinkēvičs expressed Latvia’s support for Ukraine’s path toward European Union membership.
As part of his visit, the President of Latvia, together with the President of Ukraine and other world leaders, participated in a candle-lighting ceremony at Maidan Independence Square, honouring the fallen defenders of Ukraine, including Latvian volunteers Vitālijs Smirnovs and Edgars Platonovs. They lost their lives fighting against the Russian occupying forces, defending the freedom of Ukraine. They were fully aware that were also safeguarding the freedom of Latvia and all of Europe.
