Allied presence in Latvia must be strengthened, Melnis emphasizes at NATO defense ministers' meeting

Latvia's Defense Minister Raivis Melnis called for a stronger allied presence in his country during a NATO defense ministers' meeting in Brussels. The discussions focused on bolstering the alliance's deterrence and defense capabilities, with a particular emphasis on reinforcing NATO's eastern flank.

Melnis stressed that the security situation in the region demands clear and decisive action. He stated that NATO's collective defense relies not only on political unity but also on tangible military capabilities, combat readiness, and the presence of allies. "For Latvia, it is crucial to continue strengthening NATO's eastern flank, increase defense investments, and provide long-term support to Ukraine, as Ukraine's ability to defend itself directly impacts the security of the entire Euro-Atlantic space," Melnis said.

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The security situation in our region demands clear and decisive action. NATO's collective defense relies not only on political unity but also on real military capabilities, combat readiness, and allied presence. For Latvia, it is crucial to continue strengthening NATO's eastern flank, increase defense investments, and provide long-term support to Ukraine, as Ukraine's ability to defend itself directly impacts the security of the entire Euro-Atlantic space.

During his visit, Melnis also participated in meetings of the NATO Nuclear Planning Group, the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, and the NATO-Ukraine Council. These sessions addressed current security issues, ongoing support for Ukraine, and Ukraine's role in European defense. Ministers discussed strengthening regional security, refining NATO's deterrence and defense policy, and preparing for the upcoming NATO summit in July.

Melnis reaffirmed Latvia's commitment to meeting NATO's capability goals and underscored the necessity of increasing defense spending and investments in core military needs. He noted that given the escalating security challenges, NATO allies must invest more to meet the alliance's new defense requirements and enhance its overall capabilities. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg reported "good progress" in discussions on the alliance's priorities, emphasizing the need to spend more and more effectively on defense capabilities to protect every inch of allied territory.

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Money is very important, but you cannot stop a missile or a tank with just a dollar or euro.