'For the security of all of us': Latvia supports Ukraine’s accession to NATO
Photo: President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Getty Images)
The Speaker of the Latvian Saeima assured that Latvia supports Ukraine on its path toward the EU and advocates for its accession to NATO to ensure Europe’s security, according to the website of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
It was later revealed that Daiga Mieriņa made the statement during a meeting with the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, on January 16, 2026. The sides discussed the current diplomatic situation, the negotiation process to achieve peace, and international support for Ukraine.
The Speaker of the Saeima emphasized that Latvia will actively support Ukraine on its path toward membership in the European Union and backs its integration into NATO. According to her, Ukraine’s accession to the Alliance is important not only for the country’s security but also for the stability of all of Europe.
"We will continue to do everything we can to help you become a full member of the European Union. In all our rhetoric, we also speak about NATO. We see you as a NATO country. We see a place for you in this alliance, and we believe you should be part of it for the security of all of us," Mieriņa said.
In addition to NATO and the EU, the meeting included discussions on cooperation in the defense sector, financial support, Latvia’s participation in Ukraine’s international initiatives, and humanitarian projects. The sides also agreed to continue cooperation within the Coalition of the Willing, the PURL initiative, and the SAFE program, as well as to exchange experience in advanced technologies.
Zelenskyy thanks Latvia for support
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy also thanked Latvia for its consistent support since the beginning of the full-scale war and highlighted the active role of the country’s parliament in international resolutions and the Crimea Platform.
"We are very grateful to your people and to all parliamentarians for your support. You back us everywhere, in every resolution. Thank you also for supporting the Crimea Platform and for your participation. My best wishes as well to the President and the Prime Minister. We are very grateful that you have been with us from the very beginning and continue to stand by us," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
Following Russia’s use of the Oreshnik missile against Ukraine, Latvia is initiating an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council.
In addition, Latvia’s Saeima has authorized the transfer to Ukraine of all movable property, including vehicles owned by the parliament.
