Pro-Ukraine governing coalition wins 35% in Latvian election
Latvia's pro-Ukraine governing coalition secured 35% of the vote in recent parliamentary elections, necessitating negotiations to form a new government. The election took place amidst heightened regional concerns regarding potential Russian aggression.
Why it matters
The outcome of this election is significant for NATO's eastern flank and the broader geopolitical stability of the Baltic region in the context of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Latvian lawmakers on Sunday (October 4, 2026) planned to begin negotiations to form a new government following a parliamentary election in which pro- Ukraine Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs’ four-party coalition emerged with 35% of the vote.
A political crisis in May over the handling of stray drones suspected of coming from Ukraine brought down the governing coalition that had been under strain over several other issues. The parliament, or Saeima, then approved the coalition led by Kulbergs of the centrist United List party, previously in opposition.
Latvia, like its Baltic neighbors Lithuania and Estonia, strongly supports Ukraine in its fight against Moscow’s invasion . It borders both Russia and Moscow-allied Belarus.
Saturday’s (October 3) vote came as the small republic on NATO’s eastern flank contends with growing concern about potential Russian aggression.
Also covering this story
2 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in