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Latvia votes with Russia threat looming large
kyivindependent.com • • world
Key Points:
- Latvia is holding parliamentary elections on October 3, with security concerns over Russia and a cost-of-living crisis dominating the agenda; the vote will determine the composition of the 100-member Saeima.
- Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs' pro-Ukraine United List alliance is favored to win but will need coalition partners amid a fragmented field, including parties appealing to Russian-speaking voters like Latvia First and Sovereign Power.
- Latvia First, led by businessman Ainars Slesers, combines right-wing populism with a mixed stance on Russia and Ukraine, while Sovereign Power opposes aid to Ukraine and is considered a security threat by Kulbergs.
- Security issues are paramount, with warnings of Russian hybrid attacks and recent incidents in neighboring countries heightening tensions; Latvia maintains a strong pro-Western, hawkish position toward Russia.
- Despite some political uncertainty, Latvia is expected to continue its robust support for Ukraine and maintain a firm stance against Moscow following the elections.
