Latvia Set for New Government Vote This Week

Latvian opposition politician Andris Kulbergs of the United List is attempting to form a new four-party coalition government following the collapse of Prime Minister Evika Silina's cabinet. The ruling coalition fell apart this month over disagreements on how to handle security incidents involving Russian drones.

"We have now reached a division plan", Kulbergs said after the talks, adding that the partners had agreed to work together on equal terms.

President Edgars Rinkevics has tasked Kulbergs with forming a cabinet, and parliament could vote on the new government as early as this week. If it wins the support of members of parliament, a centre-right coalition led by the largest opposition bloc will take power.

Security policy is set to remain a top priority for the incoming government. The Baltic states are among Moscow's most vocal critics and close NATO allies of Kyiv.

Evika Silina's cabinet remains in office in a caretaker capacity until a successor is appointed.

(reuters, bak)