Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže concluded a working visit too Ukraine this week, receiving the Order of Merit, Second Class, from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for Latvia’s ongoing support during the conflict with Russia. The visit, spanning November 26-27, underscores Latvia’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and its path toward European integration, as the two nations continue discussions surrounding peace negotiations [[1]]. Latvia, a Baltic state bordering Russia and a member of NATO and the European Union, has consistently been a vocal advocate for increased international aid to Ukraine [[2]].
Latvia’s Foreign Minister Baiba Braže received Ukraine’s Order of Merit, Second Class, from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on November 27, 2025, in Kyiv, as the two leaders discussed the ongoing peace negotiations. The recognition highlights Latvia’s steadfast support for Ukraine’s pursuit of a just and sustainable peace, a commitment that has been consistent since the start of the conflict.
During a working visit to Ukraine spanning November 26 and 27, Braže met with Ukrainian officials, military representatives, and members of the Latvian diaspora. The visit underscored Latvia’s continued dedication to bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities and its path toward European integration.
“I thanked the President of Ukraine for the high award – it is an appreciation and gratitude to all of Latvia and Latvian society, which has provided all possible support to Ukraine since the first day of the war and continues to do so,” Braže stated.
Braže participated in a ceremony marking the delivery of all 42 Patria 6×6 armored personnel carriers pledged by Latvia. This year, Latvia’s total military aid to Ukraine will reach 0.3% of its GDP, encompassing not only the vehicle deliveries but also the training of over 3,000 Ukrainian soldiers. Latvia has also committed 20 million euros to the Latvia-led Drone Coalition, with plans to increase support to 50 million euros in 2026, and contributed 7.2 million euros to the NATO and U.S.-led Prioritized Ukraine Requirement List (PURL). The country is also participating in the NATO “Renovator” project and supporting the reconstruction of a military hospital in the Vinnytsia region. Latvia intends to maintain at least 0.25% of its GDP in aid to Ukraine in 2026.
In Chernihiv, Braže inaugurated a renovated pediatric unit at the local hospital and a regional office for Ukraine’s Ombudsperson for Human Rights. Latvia invested 612,075 euros in the reconstruction of both facilities.
The Latvian Foreign Minister also engaged with Ukrainian anti-corruption organizations, discussing progress on reforms, strengthening the rule of law, and Ukraine’s aspirations to join the European Union. A memorandum of understanding was signed between Tilde, a Latvian language technology company, and Ukraine’s Ministry of Digital Transformation and the Bureau for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, ensuring the maintenance of a translation platform for the next three years. Tilde’s artificial intelligence tool will provide crucial support to the Euro-integration process by accelerating translation times and ensuring consistent terminology in legal documents.
Braže laid flowers at the Wall of Remembrance, honoring Ukrainian defenders who have died defending their country’s freedom and independence.
“A just and lasting peace solution must guarantee a strong, sovereign, and democratic Ukraine. Therefore, weakening Russia and increasing support for Ukraine are key elements for sustainable peace,” Braže emphasized. “Maximum economic, military, political, and diplomatic pressure must continue to be exerted on Russia so that it cannot resume its aggression against Ukraine. Latvia will actively use the UN Security Council platform, including calling on neutral countries, global partners, and allies to do more to support Ukraine.”
