Covid-19, EU – Baltic States, Latvia

The November 11 and 18 military parades have been cancelled for the first time since the restoration of Latvia's independence, the ministry noted. 

The events that were for November 11, or Lacplesis' Day, include a military parade and a people's procession in honor of the 101st anniversary of Latvian forces' victory over the army led by Russian Colonel Pavel Bermondt-Avalov.

The traditional November 18 military parade in honor of the 102nd anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Latvia, featuring Latvian and allied troops, has been cancelled as well.

Also cancelled are various events organized across Latvia by the Defense Ministry, the National Armed Forces and Home Guard.

"Considering the rapid resurgence of Covid-19 in Latvia, I have taken a hard but well-considered decision to timely cancel the November 11 and 18  military parades. Now as never before we need to be united and responsible in our actions in order to curb the spread of Covid-19 as much as possible, protecting ourselves, our families and relatives. Notwithstanding the cancellation of the traditional festive events, I am calling to take pride in our soldiers who won freedom and independence for our country and who are guarding Latvia today," said Defense Minister Artis Pabriks (Development/For).