Latvia & UK Discuss Security, Ukraine Support & Bilateral Ties

Riga and London reaffirmed their close security and political ties during a working meeting on January 28, 2026, between Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže and the UK’s Minister for Europe, North America and Overseas Territories, Stephen Doughty. Discussions centered on transatlantic relations, support for Ukraine, and containing Russian influence.

Strengthening Transatlantic Security

The meeting underscored the importance of the Euro-Atlantic security landscape and the need for continued collaboration within NATO and bilaterally. Minister Braže highlighted the UK’s consistent support for Latvia, characterizing it as a key ally in defense and security matters. Both officials agreed on the necessity of sustained aid to Ukraine and increased pressure on Russia, which they identified as the most significant threat to transatlantic security.

Drone Coalition and Financial Support

Latvia and the UK are jointly leading the Drone Coalition, an initiative providing critical assistance to Ukraine. Latvia allocated €20 million to the coalition in 2023 and plans to increase its contribution to €50 million this year. The total support provided by all Drone Coalition member states to Ukraine’s drone capabilities reached €1.8 billion in 2024.

Did You Know? The United Kingdom has never recognized the Soviet Union’s occupation of Latvia, a position reaffirmed during the recent discussions.

Regional Security and UK Military Presence

Minister Braže expressed gratitude for the UK’s contributions to security in the Baltic Sea region, Northern Europe, and NATO’s Eastern Flank. This includes the UK’s military presence in multinational brigade in Estonia, participation in the “Enhanced Forward Presence” in Poland, regular patrols of Baltic airspace, and leadership of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) and the Coalition of Willingness (CoW).

Historical Ties and Diaspora

The meeting also acknowledged the historical relationship between Latvia and the UK, noting that January 26, 1921, marked the date the Allied Powers, including the UK, formally recognized Latvia’s de iure independence. More than 160,000 people of Latvian descent currently reside in the United Kingdom.

Expert Insight: The continued emphasis on transatlantic unity and coordinated action against Russia suggests a proactive strategy to deter further aggression and reinforce the collective defense framework of NATO.

Expanding Cooperation

Latvian and UK officials also discussed opportunities for enhanced cooperation within the European Union-UK framework, focusing on shared interests in foreign policy, security, defense, trade, and economics. Parliamentary Secretary of the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Artjoms Uršulskis, and Minister Doughty explored these possibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What topics were discussed during the meeting?

The ministers discussed Euro-Atlantic security, transatlantic relations, support for Ukraine, containing Russia, and cooperation within NATO, bilaterally, and regarding the European Union-UK relationship.

What is Latvia’s financial commitment to the Drone Coalition?

Latvia allocated €20 million to the Drone Coalition in 2023 and plans to contribute €50 million in 2024.

What is the UK’s role in regional security?

The UK contributes to regional security through military deployments in Estonia and Poland, participation in Baltic air patrols, and leadership of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) and the Coalition of Willingness (CoW).

How might the ongoing collaboration between Latvia and the UK shape the future security landscape in the Baltic region?

Latvia & UK Discuss Security, Ukraine Support & Bilateral Ties – 2026 Update