Latvia announced that it will transfer all its combat helicopters to Ukraine

Latvia, which has already provided Ukraine with military aid worth more than 1% of its GDP, is preparing to transfer all of its helicopters to Ukraine.

Source. This was stated by Latvian Prime Minister Krisjanis Karinš at an international conference on Ukraine's recovery in London.

"Against the backdrop of Russia's troop buildup near the Ukrainian border, in November-December 2021, Latvia decided to send Stinger air defense systems to Ukraine. After obtaining approval from the United States for the delivery of these American weapons, the Stingers arrived in Ukraine just one day before the full-scale invasion. Fortunately, they were part of the solution to prevent the Russians from taking over the airport, which was part of their original plan," Mr. Karinš emphasized.

Since then, the Latvian government has spent more than 1.3% of its GDP on all types of assistance to Ukraine, of which more than 1% is for military needs alone.

"So, all our Stinger missiles are now in Ukraine. We have a fleet of helicopters, and we send all these helicopters – the last ones are being repainted to be usable and look good – to Ukraine," Karinš said.

In addition, Latvia continues to train Ukrainian soldiers and provide ammunition and combat drones. The head of the Latvian government emphasized the need to increase support for Ukraine and to fully integrate Ukraine into the EU and NATO.

According to him, all frozen Russian assets should be used to rebuild Ukraine. He also emphasized the need to bring the Russian leadership to justice for all crimes committed.

"So, united, we will survive. We will stand with Ukraine ... and in the end we will win. Glory to Ukraine!" the Latvian Prime Minister concluded his speech.

Background. As reported, Anthony Blinken announced that the United States will provide Ukraine with additional assistance in the amount of 1.3 billion dollars to help Kyiv rebuild its war-torn economy.