New Government Takes Power in Latvia

Latvia has approved a new government just months before parliamentary elections are due to take place. Parliament on Thursday backed a center-right coalition led by opposition politician Andris Kulbergs after the previous administration was weakened by a series of drone incidents and rising regional security tensions.

A total of 66 of the 96 MPs present voted in favor of the new four-party coalition. The government was formed by Kulbergs’ United List, former prime minister Evika Silina’s New Unity, the National Alliance and the Greens and Farmers Union.

Before the vote, Kulbergs said the government’s main priority would be national security. In addition to strengthening border protection, the new cabinet plans to focus on economic growth and energy stability.

The incoming prime minister also warned that voters would quickly judge whether the government was doing well or poorly. He said that verdict could come as soon as the parliamentary elections scheduled for October.

The coalition parties have pledged to maintain strong support for Ukraine and continue Latvia’s policy of isolating Russia.

(reuters, max)