Latvia allocates €5M to support Ukraine’s armed forces through PURL initiative
=Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprūds (Photo: Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Latvia has approved the allocation of €5 million to support Ukraine through the NATO-US PURL initiative, aimed at enhancing the country’s security and defense capabilities amid Russian aggression, according to the Latvian Ministry of Defense.
On September 9, the Latvian Cabinet of Ministers decided to fund the PURL (Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List) initiative, developed by NATO and the US to assist Ukraine in the security and defense sectors.
Latvia will allocate €5 million to support Ukraine in 2025: €3 million from the Ministry of Defense budget and €2 million from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs budget. These funds will be used to purchase American weapons and equipment that have already proven effective on the frontlines.
Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprūds emphasized that supporting Ukraine is a key tool for strengthening its defense capabilities, protecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and countering Russian aggression.
He stressed that the PURL initiative allows Ukraine to receive critically important weapons that help hold the front line, conduct counteroffensives, and enhance combat capabilities at decisive moments.
Foreign Minister Baiba Braže added that Latvia’s participation in PURL serves both as a political and practical signal of the country’s readiness, together with NATO allies, to meet the priority needs of the Ukrainian army and strengthen Europe’s collective security. She highlighted that financial support reflects Latvia’s solidarity and its commitment to defending the international order against threats from Russia.
Latvia is preparing new sanctions against Russia to complement existing EU-level restrictions. The Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has drafted a Cabinet resolution to establish a national sanctions regime targeting individuals and organizations involved in Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
Additionally, Latvia has strengthened its support for Ukraine by providing the Ministry of Defense’s Main Intelligence Directorate with vehicles, a large batch of FPV drones, and drones from the Mavic series.
