Latvian Prime Minister Resigns Amid Political Crisis Triggered by Ukraine War Fallout
Riga: Latvia Prime Minister Evika Siliņa has announced her resignation following escalating political tensions that led to the collapse of her coalition government, reportedly triggered by a controversy involving Ukrainian military drones entering Latvian airspace.
According to international media reports, the political crisis intensified after two Ukrainian drones allegedly crossed into Russian airspace but were electronically diverted and ended up crashing in Latvia’s eastern city of Rēzekne, striking empty fuel storage tanks at an oil depot.
The incident sparked widespread political backlash in Latvia, raising concerns over national air defence readiness. In response, Prime Minister Siliņa demanded the resignation of Defence Minister Andris Sprūds over alleged failures in the country’s anti-drone defence system. The Defence Minister, who belonged to a coalition partner party, stepped down on May 10.
🇱🇻 Latvia’s government has collapsed: Prime Minister Evika Siliņa has resigned amid a political crisis in the country
The trigger was a scandal following the flight of two drones, reportedly Ukrainian, which were not intercepted and eventually crashed onto the territory of an… pic.twitter.com/K6GN1gkZ4K
— NEXTA (@nexta_tv) May 14, 2026
Following his resignation, the Progressive Party withdrew its support for the government, causing the ruling coalition to lose its parliamentary majority. With the government effectively collapsing and general elections scheduled for October 2026, Prime Minister Siliņa announced her resignation in a televised address.
In a statement posted on the social media platform X, Siliņa said her decision to step down was “difficult but honest,” adding that some political forces had prioritised personal interests over national unity during the crisis.
She further stated that her priority had always been the safety of the Latvian people, emphasizing that while political alliances may change, the state and its citizens remain paramount. She also thanked supporters and critics alike, saying she was stepping down “not in defeat” and would remain in the country.
🇱🇻 Latvian government collapses
Prime Minister Evika Siliņa has resigned from her post, announcing the decision at a press briefing.
In accordance with Latvian law, the entire cabinet of ministers has resigned along with her. pic.twitter.com/hHyWmbq9Rp
— Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) May 14, 2026
The President of Latvia has since called an emergency meeting with leaders of all parliamentary parties to discuss the appointment of an interim prime minister.
Latvia, a NATO and European Union member bordering Russia, has been considered a frontline state since the Russia-Ukraine war began. Due to its strategic location and security concerns, the country has significantly increased defence cooperation with allies and has been actively involved in military aid initiatives for Ukraine, including drone supply programs.
