Latvia to push for increased sanctions pressure on Russia at European Council

RIGA - Latvia will insist on increasing the pressure of sanctions against Russia at the European Council by approving the next sanctions package, according to an information report prepared by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and available on the legislation portal.

The European Union (EU) heads of state and government will meet in Brussels on June 26 and 27. The agenda includes a number of topics, including Ukraine and Russia, the Middle East, Moldova, the Western Balkans, security and defense, the EU in the world, competitiveness, migration, internal security and preparedness.

Under Ukraine and Russia, discussions are expected on providing comprehensive support to Ukraine, maintaining pressure on Russia and engaging the EU to achieve a just and lasting peace. The Middle East segment is likely to discuss the current situation in the region, the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the escalation of the conflict in the West Bank and a long-term solution to the conflict, including the achievement of a two-state solution. The situation in Syria could also be addressed.

Under the security and defense heading, following the decisions taken at the two March European Councils, it is expected to assess progress in implementing the decisions and discuss the provision of additional funding to strengthen European defense. In the area of competitiveness, discussions are expected to take place on the new EU Single Market Strategy and on regulatory simplification.

Under migration, discussions are likely on progress in implementing previous European Council decisions on migration. In addition, the EU in the world, including preparations for upcoming summits with third countries, relations with EU partners and multilateralism, including the role of the UN in the current geopolitical context, could be addressed. Progress in Moldova's EU integration process, the situation in the Western Balkans and the EU's internal security and preparedness could also be discussed.

Latvia will underline that it remains firmly committed to Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. Latvia will insist that Europe must ensure continued, real needs-based and comprehensive support to Ukraine, including increased military support.

Latvia will also argue that Russia must demonstrate a serious commitment to end the war. Latvia will underline that sanctions are working and will be an effective tool in future peace talks. Latvia believes that sanctions pressure on Russia should be increased by approving the 18th sanctions package.

Latvia will note that it is essential to move forward smoothly with the implementation of defense capability-enhancing initiatives and to promote the development of the European defense industrial and technological base by increasing funding for defense. Latvia will also support a balanced EU competitiveness strategy, which would ensure equal economic development of all regions and the dynamism of the internal market. Latvia believes that there is a need to invest more in research and to provide an environment conducive to the creation and development of start-ups.

In the area of migration, Latvia will advocate a more effective return policy in cooperation with third countries, as well as effective and joint solutions to the challenges of the internal dimension of return.

The European Council is the EU institution that sets the bloc's overall political orientation and priorities.