Latvia Discusses Security and Budget Priorities at EU General Affairs Council

Artjoms Uršuļskis, the Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, attended the European Union (EU) General Affairs Council meeting in Brussels on May 26, 2026. The assembly focused on several high-stakes agendas, including the preparation for the June 18–19 European Council meeting and the framework for the next EU multiannual budget.

Strategic Priorities for Ukraine and Regional Security

During discussions regarding the upcoming European Council session, Uršuļskis stated that providing military support to Ukraine remains a priority. This urgency is heightened by recent Russian attacks on civilians, including those in Kyiv.

Latvia has called for a rigorous response to unacceptable threats from Russia. Uršuļskis emphasized that “Latvija uzsver nepieciešamību stiprināt sankcijas, turpināt spiedienu un izolācijas politiku pret Krieviju” (Latvia emphasizes the need to strengthen sanctions, continue pressure and the policy of isolation against Russia).

Did You Know? The EU is currently planning its next multiannual financial framework, which will cover the period from 2028 to 2034.

Financial Framework and Infrastructure Investment

The council deliberated on the EU multiannual budget for 2028–2034. Latvia’s position focuses on strengthening cohesion policy and ensuring fair competition conditions for farmers.

Uršuļskis also advocated for tighter EU connectivity within the energy and transport sectors. He argued that recent drone incidents in the Baltic states demonstrate why the next budget must allocate sufficient funds to support regions and states on the EU’s eastern border.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that linking specific security breaches, such as drone incidents, to budget negotiations is a strategic move to transition border security from a political talking point to a funded financial priority in the 2028–2034 framework.

Diplomatic Relations and Governance Standards

Regarding EU–United Kingdom (UK) relations, Latvia identified the UK as one of its most significant strategic partners. The goal is to deepen cooperation in bilateral and multilateral formats, specifically concerning foreign policy, security, defence, and the support of Ukraine.

The meeting also reviewed the rule of law in Latvia, France, Croatia, and Italy. Uršuļskis highlighted the progress Latvia has made since the publication of the 2025 European Commission rule of law report.

Improvements were noted in the judicial system, anti-corruption efforts, media policy, and civil society. These advancements, along with the implementation of two European Commission recommendations, received positive evaluations from both the Commission and other member states.

Future Outlook

As the EU moves toward the June 18–19 European Council meeting, member states may focus on finalizing the military support packages for Ukraine. The budgetary discussions for 2028–2034 could lead to a reallocation of funds toward eastern border infrastructure if security concerns persist.

Parliamentary Secretary Artjoms Uršuļskis speaks to the media before the 17 March EU GAC meeting

Frequently Asked Questions

What were Latvia’s primary requests regarding the EU budget?

Latvia emphasized the need for a stronger cohesion policy, fair competition for farmers, improved transport and energy connectivity, and dedicated funding for EU eastern border states and regions.

How does Latvia view its relationship with the United Kingdom?

Latvia views the UK as one of the EU’s most important strategic partners and seeks to deepen cooperation in defence, security, and foreign policy, as well as in supporting Ukraine.

What improvements did Latvia make regarding the rule of law?

Since the 2025 European Commission report, Latvia has implemented two Commission recommendations and made improvements in its judicial system, media policy, civil society, and the fight against corruption.

How should the EU balance long-term infrastructure budgets with immediate regional security threats?