Defense bill passed by US Congress is a clear sign of the strength of the transatlantic partnership - Spruds

RIGA - The defense bill passed by the US Congress is a clear testament to the strength of the transatlantic partnership and the unwavering commitment of the US to strengthen the security of Europe and the Baltic States, Latvian Defense Minister Andris Spruds (Progressives) said in a statement to the press.

The US Congress has approved the new defense bill, which strengthens the Baltic Security Initiative with the force of law and provides funding for the development of the Baltic States' military capabilities in next year's US budget.

US President Donald Trump is expected to announce the US National Defense Authorization Act in the coming days.

The bill currently recommends financial support of USD 175 million for Baltic security, but the exact amount of funding will be decided in the appropriations bill.

At the same time, the new defense bill clearly outlines the priority of Congress to preserve the special US relationship with Europe and to ensure that the US military presence in Europe is maintained. The bill recognizes the security threat posed by Russia and underlines the need to continue to invest with allies in a targeted collective defense capability, explains Spruds.

In addition, the defense bill also maintains substantial support for Ukraine, with financial assistance of USD 400 million.

Spruds emphasizes that the decision of the US Congress confirms the strong political commitment of the US to strengthening European security as a whole, while clearly underlining the importance of strengthening the security of the Baltic States as an integral element of transatlantic security.

The approved funding for the Baltic Security Initiative will contribute significantly to the development of the region's military capabilities, while clearly signalling the importance of collective defense in the face of the Russian threat, Spruds believes.

The Minister also underlined that Latvia highly appreciates the consistent support of the United States to Ukraine, which is crucial for the security of the whole of Europe.

Prime Minister Evika Silina (New Unity) wrote on her X account that the decision of the US Congress confirms the important role of the Baltic States in US foreign policy.

"Latvia will continue to cooperate closely with the US in the field of defense, both in the acquisition of arms and in hosting US forces in our country," notes Silina.