Latvia's new government under Kulbergs puts security first ahead of elections

Latvia's new government led by Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs is seeking parliamentary approval on Thursday. The cabinet, expected to serve only about four months until elections, has named Colonel Raivis Melnis as defence minister and placed national security at the centre of its agenda.

Latvia's incoming government, led by Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs, is asking the Saeima for a vote of confidence on Thursday. The cabinet is a caretaker-style administration with roughly four months left before scheduled elections, yet its stated ambition is clear: stabilise Latvia's security situation in the time available.

One of the most notable appointments is that of Colonel Raivis Melnis as defence minister. The choice of a military officer for the portfolio signals that the government intends to treat defence readiness as its top priority during the short tenure, amid continued concerns about regional security in the Baltic area.

With elections on the horizon, the government's room for sweeping policy change is limited. Nevertheless, Kulbergs has framed the brief mandate as an opportunity to consolidate Latvia's defence posture and ensure continuity in security policy at a time when the broader region remains on high alert.