Latvians Vote Amid Concerns Over Russian Hybrid Attacks

Latvians are heading to the polls to elect a new parliament, with Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs seeking a full term in office. The election takes place against a backdrop of heightened concerns about potential Russian aggression and hybrid attacks, particularly given Latvia's position on NATO's eastern flank.

A political crisis in May, triggered by the handling of stray drones suspected to be of Ukrainian origin, led to the collapse of the previous governing coalition. This coalition had already been under strain due to various other issues. Following the crisis, a new four-party coalition was formed and approved by the parliament, known as the Saeima, with Kulbergs of the centrist United List party leading the government.

Latvia, along with its Baltic neighbors Lithuania and Estonia, has been a strong supporter of Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. The country shares borders with both Russia and Moscow-allied Belarus.

Kulbergs, 47, expressed his hope for a favorable election result, stating that it would provide an opportunity to implement changes and set Latvia on the right path for defense and economic development. "A strong economy can only bring strong defense, so that is the mission for the next four years if I'm given the right to lead the country," he said after casting his ballot in Riga. "Our party is ready to make changes."

Given the fragmented nature of Latvian politics, a multiparty coalition is expected to be necessary to form the next government. Parties require at least 5% of the vote to secure seats in parliament.

Concerns about potential Russian hybrid attacks—a term encompassing non-conventional hostile actions such as sabotage, cyberattacks, and disinformation campaigns—have been increasing across Europe. Latvia, positioned on the eastern edge of NATO, is seen as particularly vulnerable.

In response to these security concerns, NATO has reinforced its air protection over Latvian airspace for the duration of the election period. Germany has deployed four Eurofighter jets to Latvia for approximately one week.

The Latvian State Security Service has reported that, as of last week, no significant or systematic efforts by Russia or other actors to influence the election outcome in favor of specific parties or candidates have been detected. Polls are scheduled to close at 1700 GMT.