Melnis: Cooperation with US is decisive factor for Baltic security
Latvian Defense Minister Raivis Melnis and Interior Minister Jānis Dombrava met with the U.S. ambassador, emphasizing that cooperation with the United States is the foundation of regional security.
On Tuesday, Latvian Defense Minister Raivis Melnis, together with Interior Minister Jānis Dombrava (National Alliance), met with U.S. Ambassador to Latvia Melisa Ardhires to discuss bilateral defense cooperation and initiatives to strengthen regional security. The meeting focused on deepening collaboration between Latvian defense and interior services and the United States.
Melnis stated that cooperation with the U.S. is fundamental to the security of Latvia and the entire Baltic region. He noted that in the current geopolitical situation, the U.S. military presence in Latvia and joint efforts to bolster defense capabilities and the eastern border serve as a clear testimony to allied unity. The minister emphasized that amid this dynamic growth of national defense capabilities, U.S. experience and practical support gain new, deeper strategic significance.
Dombrava highlighted that Latvia's internal security is an integral part of the country's overall security. He said Latvia highly values U.S. support in strengthening capabilities to respond to modern security challenges, including illegal migration, hybrid threats, and cross-border crime. The interior minister stressed that strong cooperation with the U.S. is a crucial prerequisite for the security of both Latvia and Europe as a whole.
The officials also discussed bilateral defense cooperation, the U.S. military presence in Latvia, support for Ukraine, and the strengthening of Latvia's eastern border. The talks reaffirmed both countries' commitment to continued close security cooperation.
