EU – Baltic States, Latvia, Legislation, Society

The politician believes that All For Latvia-For Fatherland And Freedom/LNNK (VL-TB/LNNK) is "sacrificing the security of Latvia in the context of both the European Union (EU) and NATO" for the sake of higher popularity ratings for the party. In the minister's opinion, Latvia cannot succumb to such a wave of populism. "We are risking to suffer a boomerang effect," according to the minister.

Rinkevics says that the EU and NATO's European allies are asking in the press and discussions: "Why should we give Eastern Europe and the Baltics direct agricultural payments and structural funds, or invest in energy independence of these countries, protect Latvia's airspace and borders, if these countries fail to understand that solidarity is a two-way street?"

"So far, all EU and NATO member states have shown support for our position regarding both strengthening of NATO's presence in the region and sanctions against Russia due to the events in Ukraine, as well as measures against the Russian propaganda," says the minister.

According to Rinkevics, due to migration and eurozone problems, discussions often focus on claims that the EU will suffer negative dynamics, some people even believe that the EU will collapse. "The question is, what will Latvia get out of this? Nothing. Politically and economically, we will remain alone. Our history shows where this path ends. In Siberia," said the politician.