On Tuesday, September 9, the Latvian Cabinet of Ministers approved a draft decision to allocate €5 million to the NATO and U.S. initiative supporting Ukraine, PURL (Prioritized Ukrainian Requirements List), the press service of the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Latvia reported.
“It is necessary to continue supporting Ukraine in every possible way, as this is the only way to strengthen its ability to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to achieve victory in the fight against the aggressor state Russia. The PURL initiative is a way to provide Ukraine with American weapons, which have already enhanced its combat capabilities at critical moments, to hold the front, conduct counterattacks, and demonstrate U.S. support for Ukraine,” emphasized Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprūds.
Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkēvičs (note: original text mentions Baiba Braže; ensure accurate title) stated that Latvia’s financing of American weapons procurement in support of Ukraine sends a clear signal of NATO and allies’ determination to meet Ukraine’s prioritized military needs and strengthen collective security in Europe.
“Latvia’s contribution is a political and practical demonstration of solidarity, once again confirming that Latvia, together with its allies, is ready to defend the international order against Russian aggression,” she added.
According to the government’s decision, Latvia’s contribution in 2025 will amount to €5 million, of which €3 million is allocated from the Ministry of Defense budget and €2 million from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs budget.
PURL is a new initiative aimed at facilitating the acquisition and delivery of U.S. defense goods and services to Ukraine through funding from allies and partners. Under this initiative, European countries and Canada provide financing to procure U.S.-made military products, ensuring the Ukrainian armed forces receive the necessary support quickly and effectively.
