On 24 January, President Edgars Rinkēvičs participated in the formal National Armed Forces change of command ceremony at the Freedom Monument.
In his address, the President welcomed the new Commander of the National Armed Forces, Brigadier General Kaspars Pudāns, who will assume the role on 27 January, succeeding Lieutenant General Leonīds Kalniņš. "This is a highly turbulent time, a time when Russia’s aggression against Ukraine continues and a hybrid war in various forms is being waged against our country. However, I am confident that Brigadier General Kaspars Pudāns possesses the knowledge and experience necessary to honourably fulfil the primary duties of the Commander of the Armed Forces," President Rinkēvičs emphasised.
“However, this will only be achievable if all members of the Armed Forces will form a united team. I am confident that this goal will be achieved once Brigadier General K. Pudāns gains the full support of the public.
In the coming years, we must prepare for the most challenging scenarios to prevent them from occurring. I am absolutely certain that our country's Armed Forces, under the leadership of the new Commander of the National Armed Forces, will rise to the occasion. Therefore, I extend my best wishes to all members of the Armed Forces and the new Commander, wishing them strength, professionalism, resilience, and the honour to serve Latvia”.
