Latvian prime minister: “Our power is in our unity”

Text and photo Mark Taylor

Today (February 3), the prime ministers of the three Baltic Countries met in Tallinn for the first time this year as part of Estonia’s chairmanship of the Baltic Council of Ministers. The three leaders discussed the war in Ukraine, military support and aid for the country, as well as energy security, Rail Baltica and other regional topics.

With the war in Ukraine approaching its first anniversary, it was the main talking point of the meeting. Estonian prime minister Kaja Kallas highlighting the importance of support for Ukraine as Russia prepares for further escalation.

Both Estonia and Latvia have now provided military and humanitarian support to Ukraine in excess of 1 per cent of GDP. Something Kallas stated was “unprecedented on a historic scale”. The Latvian PM Krišjānis Kariņš adding that, “it is important that in all three Baltic countries, we continue to invest to improve our military capabilities and our NATO allies continue to strengthen their presence in the Baltics”. Emphasizing that, “our power is in our unity”.

Lithuanian PM Ingrida Šimonytė stressed that Russia’s actions in Ukraine were “not just an invasion, but an attack on democracy and European values”. Underlining the importance of holding Russia accountable through an international tribunal.

The three leaders also highlighted the importance of energy security, joining the European energy network, as well as the development of joint renewable energy projects. Additionally, agreeing on plans to speed up the construction of Rail Baltica.

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Baltic Council of Ministers Energy Security Kaja Kallas Latvia Lithuania NATO Russia Ukraine War