Kulbergs: joint drone factory with Ukraine should be built in Latgale as soon as possible

Following an emergency cabinet meeting in Latgale, Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs told journalists that Latvia will do everything possible to build a joint drone production plant with Ukraine as quickly as possible, located on the border – likely in Latgale.

Kulbergs stressed that the region needs more economic activity, investment, and jobs. He noted that security is the primary concern raised by locals – without adequate security, tourism and other sectors suffer.

The prime minister revealed that an anti-drone solution will be deployed along the Russian and Belarusian borders in July or August, avoiding the need to scramble aviation for each drone incursion. The system is effective but expensive.

Defense Minister Raivis Melnis visited an air defense point equipped with Latvian-made drone interceptors. Such points are planned along the entire border. The meeting also discussed increasing the presence of the National Armed Forces in Latgale.

Kulbergs recalled that in June he and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a comprehensive defense cooperation agreement. It includes co-production and the transfer of Ukrainian expertise in air defense against drone attacks.

The prime minister and defense minister have agreed that Latvia will remove political barriers and establish “green corridors” to ensure the plant is located on the border. Kulbergs expressed hope that the foundation stone will be laid this year.