Ukraine War: Baltic States Show Support With Aid & Solidarity | 4 Years On

February 28, 2026 David Kessler - News Editor News

Four Years of War in Ukraine: Baltic States Stand Firm in Support

Four years after the full-scale invasion began, Ukraine continues to defend its sovereignty against Russia, and the Baltic states – particularly Latvia – remain steadfast in their commitment to providing support. This commitment was underscored on February 24, 2026, when Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa traveled to Kyiv to stand in solidarity with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other European leaders, reaffirming continued military and energy assistance to Ukraine. This visit, coinciding with the somber anniversary, highlights the enduring partnership between Ukraine and the Baltic nations, and signals a continued willingness to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

A Symbolic Visit on a Significant Anniversary

Prime Minister Siliņa’s presence in Kyiv alongside leaders from the Baltic and Nordic countries, as well as the President of the European Commission, wasn’t merely symbolic. It was a deliberate demonstration of unity and resolve. “We have been with Ukraine since the first day of the war,” Siliņa stated, emphasizing the ongoing and additional support being provided. The visit marked four years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion, a period that has fundamentally reshaped the geopolitical landscape of Europe. The Latvian Prime Minister is scheduled to participate in memorial events and high-level discussions focused on further assistance to Ukraine and the pursuit of a peaceful resolution.

Latvia’s Multi-Faceted Support for Ukraine

Latvia’s support for Ukraine extends beyond symbolic gestures and high-level meetings. The country has consistently provided both military and non-military aid, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to assisting Ukraine. In July 2025, Latvia delivered “Patria” armored personnel carriers to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, showcasing a tangible commitment to bolstering Ukraine’s defensive capabilities. This commitment is formalized in a historic agreement signed on April 11, 2024, between Latvia and Ukraine, outlining long-term security commitments.

Under the terms of this agreement, Latvia pledges to provide military support amounting to 0.25% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2026, alongside an annual contribution of EUR 5 million towards Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts until 2026. The agreement specifically focuses on areas like Latvia’s leadership within the Coalition of Drones, the supply of military equipment and weapons, and the training of Ukrainian military personnel. The agreement establishes a consultation mechanism to address potential future armed attacks by Russia. Latvia is similarly contributing non-military support, including development cooperation, reconstruction assistance for the Chernihiv region, and collaboration in digital, energy, and cyber security, as well as hybrid threat prevention.

NATO’s Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) and Latvia’s Role

Latvia is actively participating in NATO’s new initiative, the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL), designed to facilitate the provision of military support to Ukraine. President Zelenskyy discussed this initiative during a phone call with his Latvian counterpart, Edgars Rinkēvičs, in August 2025. Latvia has confirmed its readiness to contribute to PURL, which enables allies to finance US-made weapons for Ukraine. This initiative, alongside contributions from other nations like the Netherlands, Sweden, and Norway, is expected to deliver crucial weaponry and ammunition to Ukraine in the coming weeks. The PURL mechanism represents a significant step in streamlining and accelerating the delivery of vital military aid.

A Broader European Response

The presence of numerous European leaders in Kyiv on February 24th underscores the collective commitment to supporting Ukraine. The European Commission President joined the Baltic and Nordic leaders, demonstrating a unified front against Russian aggression. This coordinated response is crucial for maintaining pressure on Russia and providing Ukraine with the resources it needs to defend its territory. Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže also contributed to the international effort, delivering a video address at a reinforced meeting of the OSCE Permanent Council in Vienna, urging the international community to move beyond statements and exert maximum pressure on Russia.

Latvia’s Advocacy for Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic Integration

Latvia is a vocal advocate for Ukraine’s deeper integration into European and Euro-Atlantic structures. President Rinkēvičs reaffirmed Latvia’s support for Ukraine’s speedy accession to the European Union during his conversation with President Zelenskyy. Ukraine has met the necessary requirements for EU membership, and Latvia believes it is just and fair to simultaneously open the first negotiating cluster for Ukraine and Moldova. Latvia firmly supports Ukraine’s membership in both the EU and NATO, recognizing the importance of these alliances for Ukraine’s long-term security and stability. This position is consistent with Latvia’s broader foreign policy goals of promoting democracy, security, and cooperation in the region.

Looking Ahead: Continued Support and the Path to Peace

The situation in Ukraine remains fluid and uncertain. Whereas the immediate focus is on providing continued military and humanitarian assistance, the long-term goal is to achieve a just and lasting peace. Latvia’s commitment to Ukraine is unwavering, and the country will continue to function with its allies to support Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and Euro-Atlantic aspirations. The agreement signed in April 2024 provides a framework for sustained cooperation, and Latvia is prepared to fulfill its commitments under the agreement. As the conflict continues, the Baltic states, led by Latvia, will remain at the forefront of efforts to support Ukraine and promote a peaceful resolution to the crisis. A recent campaign led by LSM, Latvia’s public broadcaster, raised 745,000 euros for Ukraine, demonstrating the broad public support for Ukraine within Latvia.

Confirmed vs. Unclear

The confirmed details center around Latvia’s explicit commitments: the Prime Minister’s visit to Kyiv, the long-term security agreement signed in April 2024, the pledged military aid (0.25% of GDP by 2026 and EUR 5 million annually for reconstruction), and Latvia’s participation in the NATO PURL initiative.

Details that remain unclear include the specific types of military equipment Latvia will provide under the PURL initiative, the precise timeline for the delivery of aid, and the specific terms of the consultation mechanism outlined in the security agreement. The progress of the peace process and the ultimate outcome of the conflict remain uncertain.

Background: Latvia-Ukraine Relations

Latvia and Ukraine share a history of close political and economic ties. Following Ukraine’s independence in 1991, Latvia was among the first countries to recognize Ukraine’s sovereignty. Since then, the two countries have fostered cooperation in various fields, including trade, energy, and security. Latvia has consistently supported Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, particularly in the face of Russian aggression. The current conflict has further strengthened the relationship between the two countries, with Latvia providing significant assistance to Ukraine.

Numbers That Matter

  • 0.25%: Latvia’s pledged military support to Ukraine as a percentage of its GDP by 2026.
  • EUR 5 million: Latvia’s annual contribution towards Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts until 2026.
  • 745,000 euros: Funds raised by an LSM campaign for Ukraine.
  • Four years: The length of time since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine.

What Happens Next?

The immediate next steps involve the implementation of the commitments outlined in the security agreement signed in April 2024. Latvia will work to fulfill its pledges of military and financial assistance, and will continue to coordinate its efforts with its allies. The delivery of weapons and ammunition under the NATO PURL initiative is expected to begin in the coming weeks. The focus will also be on supporting Ukraine’s EU accession process and advocating for its membership in NATO. The situation on the ground in Ukraine will continue to be closely monitored, and Latvia will adjust its support accordingly.