Latvia Redirects Reconstruction Funds to Bolster Ukraine’s Energy and Military Needs
Riga, Latvia – – The Latvian government has approved a €1.88 million aid package for Ukraine, focusing on critical energy infrastructure and bolstering the Ukrainian military. The decision, made on Tuesday, reflects Latvia’s continued commitment to supporting Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict.
The funding comes as a result of unspent allocations originally intended for reconstruction projects in the Chernihiv region of Ukraine. According to a report from the Latvian Ministry of Economics, a competition initiated in 2024 to identify companies capable of manufacturing furniture and container-type boiler houses for these reconstruction efforts yielded mixed results.
While agreements were signed last October with several firms to produce furniture, resulting in expenditures of €86,292, a suitable manufacturer for the boiler houses could not be found. Companies assessed were unable to meet the necessary requirements, leaving a portion of the allocated funds available for alternative uses. This prompted the Ministry to propose a shift in focus towards addressing Ukraine’s immediate operational needs.
Of the €1.88 million package, €1.2 million will be allocated to the purchase of generators and other essential goods to ensure power supply to the Chernihiv region, which has been impacted by disruptions to its energy infrastructure. The remaining €680,000 will be provided by the Ministry of Defence for the procurement of unmanned systems designed to strengthen the capabilities of the Ukrainian armed forces.
The Ministry of Economics also proposes leveraging the funding to promote the development of dual-use technologies within Latvian industry, with the €680,000 allocated to the Ministry of Defence’s budget sub-program “Maintenance of the National Armed Forces.”
Latvia has been a strong supporter of Ukraine since the beginning of the conflict, providing comprehensive political, military, financial, development cooperation, and humanitarian assistance. As of , the total support provided by Latvia to Ukraine has reached EUR 1.08 billion, representing 0.6% of Latvia’s GDP.
This latest aid package builds upon previous efforts, including support for Ukrainian civilians in Latvia through residence and work permits, employment grants, and access to social benefits. Latvia is also involved in reconstruction initiatives, focusing on the renovation of social infrastructure facilities, such as educational and healthcare institutions, and the construction of shelters.
Latvia remains among the leading countries advocating for strong and sustained support for Ukraine, according to the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, until its victory is secured.
