Latvia has not received any requests to participate in the U.S.-Israeli operation in Middle East - Rinkevics

RIGA - Latvia has not yet received any invitations or requests to participate in the military operation in the Middle East being carried out by the United States and Israel, President Edgars Rinkevics told members of the press on Wednesday after meeting with Prime Minister Evika Silina (New Unity) at Riga Castle.

He emphasized that should Latvia receive such an invitation, it would be evaluated responsibly and promptly in consultation with the relevant ministries, the government, and the Saeima. The President noted that any decisions regarding the deployment of military contingents fall within the Saeima’s jurisdiction.

Rinkevics explained that the actions of the United States and Israel in the Middle East are understandable, given Iran’s role - its nuclear program, threats to neighboring countries, and support for Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. In his view, the heightened rhetoric heard in the public sphere should take place where it belongs - in discussions within NATO, the European Union (EU), and the U.S.

The President said that global events are closely intertwined and that both Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and the situation in the Middle East should be addressed comprehensively by Europe and the U.S. He emphasized that Europe must find ways to support its allies, even though these are sometimes difficult decisions. Rinkevics added that everyone expects clear engagement from the U.S. in resolving the Ukraine issue as well. The President noted that both NATO and the EU must seek common ground rather than emphasize their differences.