(Central News Agency, Riga, 10th comprehensive foreign report) Latvian Defense Minister Adris Spruds resigned today after two Ukrainian drones intruded into its airspace and struck an oil storage facility.

According to AFP, Spruds decided to resign at the request of Prime Minister Evika Silina. Silina stated on social media platform X that Spruds had "lost her trust and that of the public."

Silina pointed out that the anti-drone systems' response to the May 7 intrusion incident was not quick enough.

She wrote: "The drone incident this week clearly shows that the political leadership in the defense sector failed to fulfill its commitment to ensure the security of our country's airspace."

Silina emphasized that Latvia's defense spending as a percentage of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is one of the highest among NATO member states. Its defense spending accounts for approximately 5% of GDP.

Two drones entered Latvia from the Russian border on May 7. According to the National Police, a fire that broke out at the time was quickly brought under control.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga stated that the drones' flight into Latvia was caused by "Russian electronic warfare." Latvia and Lithuania are calling on NATO to strengthen its air defense capabilities.

Silina announced that Army Colonel Raivis Melnis will take over the position of Defense Minister. (Translated by: He Hongru) 1150511

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  • Source: CNA (Central News Agency)
  • Category: 人事