Baltic States – CIS, Latvia, Legislation, Russia, Security

Alexander Veshnyakov and Raimonds Vejonis. Riga, 29.01.2015. Photo: mod.gov.lv

During the meeting, the two sides discussed Russia's increase in military activity near Latvian borders, where Veshnyakov claimed that all Russian military movement is in accordance with international regulations, the Russian Embassy informed.

The Russian ambassador also emphasized during the meeting that Russia is not threatening the security of its neighbors, and said that ''Russia is ready to continue the open and non-political dialogue which the Latvian side has broken off'', including military matters that Latvia is concerned off.

As reported, during a meeting with Ambassador Veshnyakov, Vejonis called on Russia to dispel concerns about its objectives in the Baltic region. The defense minister said during the meeting that he cannot comprehend the frequent and often provocative activities by the Russian military near the Baltics, which certainly has led to an increase in tensions, LETA was informed by the Defense Ministry's press center.

''Russia's military activities near Latvia's border raises much concern about the security situation in the region, especially in wake of the events currently unfolding in Ukraine. Thus, I asked the ambassador to explain why Russian military aircraft and warship are carrying out maneuvers just several kilometers from our border. Without an answer, questions arise – is this some sort of message to Latvia, or a Russian show of strength,'' Vejonis explained.

The minister urged to Russian side to be more open and take trust-building measures, so to dispel concerns about Russia's objectives and intentions in the Baltic region.

Vejonis also emphasized that it is in Latvia's interest to have a constructive dialogue and cooperation with Russia. ''We support good neighborly relations, and one of the pre-conditions for such relations is the ability to speak openly about concerns and matters that are unclear,'' he pointed out.