Latvian Armed Forces Commander Kaspars Pudāns highlighted the need for strengthening defense as Russia's strategies increasingly rely on undermining Ukraine's political will and targeting civilians.
Latvian Armed Forces (NBS) Commander Kaspars Pudāns expressed concerns about Russia's military strategy in Ukraine, indicating that it does not hinge on front-line successes but rather aims to weaken the political resolve of the Ukrainian people. During an interview with Latvian Television, Pudāns stated that the current balance of power on the battlefield means that the aggressor's tactics have shifted towards manipulating public opinion and using terroristic methods against civilian populations, particularly through missile strikes and drone attacks.
Citing recent events, he noted that twin explosions in Lviv resulted in the death of a police officer and injuries to 25 others, which President Volodymyr Zelensky attributed to a planned attack by Russia using platforms like Telegram for coordination. Additionally, there was a targeted bombing in Mykolaiv, which injured seven police officers, further highlighting the deliberate targeting of law enforcement agencies in a bid to instill fear and disrupt social order in Ukraine.
Pudāns emphasized that in light of these developments, it is crucial for Latvia and its allies to utilize this time effectively to bolster their defense capabilities. The ongoing conflict underscores the necessity for a united and proactive approach to ensure the security of not just Ukraine, but of entire Eastern European region as well, to deter further aggression from Russia.
