Latvian Defense Minister Andris Spruds announced his resignation after several drones entered the country’s airspace last week.
According to the minister, the decision was not linked to any loss of confidence in the defense sector, but to a desire to shield the army and the national security system from the influence of political campaigns.
“In recent days and weeks, we have witnessed serious incidents involving drones. Drones, including foreign ones, must not threaten the safety of our citizens,” Spruds said.
He also stressed that the country’s defense capability and the protection of civilians are far more important than a ministerial post or the interests of any political party.
Prime minister’s position
Earlier, Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina called on Spruds to resign. In her view, the drone incident showed that the Defense Ministry leadership was unable to fulfill its promise of keeping the skies safe.
Silina added that the defense sector should next be led by a professional. She had previously invited Colonel Raivis Melnis to take the soon-to-be-vacant position, and he agreed.
What is known about the incident
On Thursday, May 7, several drones entered Latvian territory. One of them crashed on the grounds of an oil depot in the city of Rezekne.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said the drone incident was the result of Russian electronic warfare systems, which, he said, “deliberately diverted Ukrainian drones from their targets on Russian territory.”