Baltics can be sure that US and Russia will not make decisions that are unfavorable to them - Levits

RIGA - The Baltic states can be sure that the United States and Russia will not make decisions unfavorable to them, President Egils Levits told reporters today after a meeting with Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins (New Unity).

He pointed out that the US policy on these negotiations was to be fully transparent. Allies in Europe are being informed about the progress of the talks, and Levits said that he too has had a conversation with US President Joe Biden. Not only foreign ministers, but also the leadership of the European Union (EU) are in constant contact with one another.

"We are being kept informed of what is happening in these talks. Our views are also being taken into account and there is a consensus at the moment - Russia's demands are unacceptable and must be rejected, but there may be some points on which agreement can be reached. Negotiations are ongoing, but Europe and Latvia can be sure that no decisions will be made without us," said Levits, emphasizing that the United States is well aware of the need for security in Europe.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister emphasized that the crisis has brought the EU and NATO member states closer together and and are moving in the same pace. It has been decided together that these nations will stick to its principles, namely that no one on the side can dictate how NATO decides to deploy its forces. Nor can anyone dictate which country could or could not join the Alliance.

"Perhaps some questioned what would happen between these countries during the crisis and in heightened tensions. We see that this has made these countries act in greater solidarity with one another. In addition, cooperation with partners is stronger than before," Karins emphasized.