Latvia's pro-Ukraine party wins parliamentary election by wide margin

Latvia's pro-Ukrainian United List faction, led by Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs, emerged victorious in the country's parliamentary election with over 35% of the vote. The election, held on October 3rd, saw a 51.8% turnout as nearly 800,000 Latvians cast their ballots. United List secured 41 seats out of the 100-member Saeima, Latvia's unicameral parliament, thanks to their impressive 35.3% share of the vote.

President Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated Kulbergs on his convincing win, praising the Latvian people's confidence in his leadership and vision for the nation's future. President Zelensky also emphasized Ukraine's deep appreciation for Latvia's consistent friendship and support.

Latvians faced several pressing issues during the election, including affordability and security concerns. The Baltic nation, a member of both the EU and NATO and bordered by Russia and Belarus, was particularly vigilant in the face of Western warnings about escalating hybrid threats from Russia.

The election marked a pivotal moment for Kulbergs, who assumed the prime minister role in May following a political crisis triggered by a Ukrainian drone incursion into Latvian airspace. This crisis led to the resignation of former Prime Minister Evika Silina and the subsequent formation of a four-party coalition headed by Kulbergs.

In the parliamentary election, the populist Latvia First party secured second place, garnering around 13% of the vote, or 17 seats. The pro-Russian Sovereign Power party placed third with 11.7% (15 seats), making it Latvia's only political party that opposes military aid to Ukraine. The conservative National Alliance party came in fourth with 8.9% (10 seats), while the Progressive party rounded out the top five with 7.9% (10 seats).

Although pro-Russian parties expanded their representation in Latvia's legislature, they still lacked the necessary numbers to significantly influence policy. Despite this, Kulbergs has consistently expressed unwavering support for Ukraine throughout his term. Since 2022, Latvia has significantly increased its defense spending, reaching 5% of GDP - one of the highest levels in NATO.