Latvia and Ukraine Deepen Military Ties Amid Ongoing Russia-Ukraine War
Ukrainian Defense Minister Denis Shmyhal recently visited Latvia to bolster military ties, with both nations aiming to strengthen their cooperation in defense, science, and industry. The visit comes amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and Latvia's commitment to the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), a coalition of ten European countries.
The JEF, comprising Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, the UK, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Finland, and Sweden, met in Buda, Norway, with a Ukrainian delegation present. During this meeting, a memorandum of cooperation in the defense industry was signed between Latvia and Ukraine. This move signals a deepening of their relationship, with Latvia planning to train Ukrainian soldiers in 2024 and the two nations planning to operate as a single entity in scientific, industrial, and financial defense cooperation.
Looking ahead, Latvia has proposed that the Ukrainian Armed Forces participate in exercises with UAVs next year, alongside NATO members. Furthermore, Latvia has suggested that the JEF could benefit from the 'valuable experience' of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. In support of these efforts, Latvia has allocated 0.3 percent of its GDP to the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in 2023.
The visit of Ukrainian Defense Minister Denis Shmyhal to Latvia has resulted in a significant strengthening of their military cooperation. With plans for joint training, industry collaboration, and shared exercises, both nations are committed to supporting each other in the face of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Latvia's allocation of resources to Ukraine's armed forces further underscores this commitment.
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