Latvia and Ukraine sign drone cooperation deal

Latvian Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a broad defense cooperation agreement on Tuesday in Tallinn. The deal aims to bolster Ukraine's air defense against drone attacks by leveraging its unique combat experience.

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Ukraine promises to support product exports to expand the capabilities of the National Armed Forces. In cases where support is provided to Ukraine's industry, the parties will consider opportunities for co-production, localization, and technology transfer.

Under the agreement, Ukraine will share its expertise in drone technology and air defense systems. It will also support the export of Ukrainian defense products to enhance Latvia's National Armed Forces. The pact opens possibilities for joint production, localization, and technology transfer. Latvia, in turn, pledges political support for Ukraine's NATO and EU accession, military equipment donations, training for Ukrainian soldiers, and contributions to international funds.

Kulbergs emphasized Ukraine's current unparalleled knowledge in combating drones, stating the agreement will strengthen Latvia's own anti-drone capabilities. "Sharing knowledge, experience, and resources allows us to be much more effective in strengthening our country's defense," he said. The cooperation is envisioned to span at least 10 years, with annual decisions on specific support measures. It also includes intelligence sharing, export licenses for Latvian armed forces' needs, and post-war collaboration on rebuilding defense-related infrastructure in Ukraine.

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Ukraine knows best in the world right now how to fight against drones. This agreement will allow us to strengthen Latvia's anti-drone defense capabilities.

Any budgetary commitments from Latvia will require clear government and parliamentary approval. The agreement also outlines potential purchases from Ukraine's military industry, further solidifying the military-industrial partnership between the two nations.

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By signing the cooperation agreement, we agreed that in the implementation of the agreement, the defense forces of both countries will cooperate closely, because sharing knowledge, experience, and resources allows us to be much more effective in strengthening our country's defense.