Latvia to fast-track joint drone factory with Ukraine in border region

Latvia is committed to rapidly establishing a joint drone manufacturing facility with Ukraine, with a preference for its eastern Latgale border region, Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs announced. The government held an extraordinary meeting in Latgale, which Kulbergs described as "healthy," noting that decisions made solely in Riga cannot fully grasp regional challenges.

During their visit to Latgale, ministers met with local businesses and municipal representatives. Kulbergs highlighted that security is the paramount concern for residents, as a lack of it negatively impacts tourism and other sectors. To bolster security, Latvia will implement anti-drone solutions along its borders with Russia and Belarus by July or August, a measure Kulbergs acknowledged is effective but costly.

Defense Minister Raivis Melnis visited a border air defense site equipped with Latvian-made drone interception systems. The government also discussed increasing the National Armed Forces' presence in the Latgale region. This follows an agreement signed by Kulbergs and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on comprehensive defense cooperation, which includes adopting Ukraine's expertise in air defense against drones and establishing joint production.

Kulbergs stressed that Latvia will remove political barriers and create "green corridors" to facilitate the drone plant's location in the border area. He emphasized the need for economic activity, investment, and job creation in Latgale, expressing hope that the "first cornerstone question" for the facility will be laid this year. The agreement with Ukraine also involves sharing unique military and civilian experiences in drone technology and air defense.

“

veselīgu