Latvian centrist moves to form coalition government
politico.eu • • world
Key Points:
- Centrist Latvian lawmaker Andris Kulbergs announced plans to form a coalition government with four parties after the collapse of Prime Minister Evika Siliņa’s center-right ruling coalition.
- President Edgard Rinkevics tasked Kulbergs, leader of the largest opposition group United List, with leading coalition talks, which have resulted in a division plan including the National Alliance, Green and Farmers’ Union, and New Unity parties.
- The coalition deal includes appointing caretaker Prime Minister Siliņa as defense minister, with security and defense set as key priorities given Latvia’s proximity to Russia and support for Ukraine and EU defense policies.
- The Latvian parliament is expected to vote on the new government later this week, with the incoming coalition also focusing on negotiations for the EU’s next seven-year budget, emphasizing funding for security, agriculture, and regional development.