By KYIV. Dec 13 (Interfax-Ukraine) – Minister of Defense of Ukraine Rustem Umerov has held a meeting in Kyiv with Minister of Defense of Latvia Andris Spruds, during which the creation of a Coalition of drones was discussed, the press service of the Ministry of Defense reported on Telegram.
“I would like to express my gratitude to the Latvian side for the initiative in creating a UAV Coalition. After all, the development of this war proves that the advantage in capabilities in this area is often decisive on the battlefield,” Umerov said during a briefing on Tuesday.
During the meeting, the parties also discussed the potential expansion of training programs for the Armed Forces of Latvia by instructors, as well as Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic prospects in the context of the NATO Summit in Washington, which will be held in 2024.
“I am grateful to Latvia for its unwavering political support for the integration of our state into the Alliance,” Umerov said.
In addition, the minister expressed gratitude to the Latvian government and people for their support from the first day of full-scale Russian aggression.
“Thanks to the ammunition, artillery, anti-tank and small arms, UAVs, ATGMs and many other modern means transferred to Ukraine, Ukrainian soldiers are bringing our victory closer,” Umerov stressed.
In his turn, Spruds stressed that Latvia is ready to continue and deepen cooperation, as well as to look for new partners.
“The development of technologies, in particular those that ensure the safety of soldiers’ lives, is a key area of our work,” the minister said.
He also stressed that technologies for the development of UAVs and a coalition of drones are important to save military lives and bring Ukraine’s victory closer.
“Ukraine is a key ally of Latvia. Ukraine is fighting for its freedom, but also for the freedom of all of us,” said the head of the Latvian Defense Ministry.
