"The commitments reached at the Paris Conference of 27 leaders and representatives of the European Union and NATO countries, will significantly contribute to Ukraine's victory over the aggressor – Russia," said Prime Minister Evika Siliņa, when commenting on the results of the meeting hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysée Palace on 26 February.
The leaders agreed on the areas for additional steps – cyber defence, arms production in Ukraine, more support for countries directly threatened by Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, in particular Moldova, non-military support to Ukraine on its border with Belarus, as well as additional demining operations.
The French President proposed setting up a coalition of countries to supply long-range missiles to Ukraine. The proposal was supported by Latvia and other countries. To date, eight such coalitions have been established, with Latvia and the UK leading the drone coalition.
"The leaders share the view that Ukraine's fair struggle requires a broader and more effective support. The outcome of this war will have a direct impact on the values and future of Europe as a whole - that is why Ukraine must win. Latvia will contribute about one tenth of our national defence budget, i.e. 0.25% of GDP, to military aid for Ukraine. If all countries were to support Ukraine to the same extent, Ukraine’s victory would become a more attainable target. Awareness of the gravity of the situation has increased significantly, and it is good for our common security. Together we are stronger," emphasized Prime Minister Evika Siliņa.
The leaders also highlighted the need to step up efforts to counter Russia's war economy and to produce more, faster and better munitions in Western countries. The leaders reached consensus that Ukraine is most in need of additional air defence, medium and long-range missiles and artillery to make faster progress towards victory over Russia’s aggression.
The Conference in Support of Ukraine, hosted by the French President, was attended by the Heads of State and Government, as well as ministers and representatives from the 27 European Union and NATO member states. President Volodymyr Zelensky also addressed the participants in a video message, calling for reinforced support to Ukraine, in particular in the fields of air defence and artillery.
For more information on the conference and its results, please visit the website of the President of France.
