Latvia to build joint drone factory with Ukraine near Russian border

Latvia and Ukraine will establish a joint drone production facility in Latvia’s eastern border region, near Russia and Belarus, to foster defense industry cooperation. Latvian Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs announced the initiative, aiming to expedite the construction and deployment of the plant. Latvia also plans to deploy interceptor drones along its borders with Russia and Belarus within two months to counter drone threats.

• Latvia and Ukraine will establish a joint drone production facility in Latvia’s eastern border region.
• The facility aims to promote cooperation between Latvia and Ukraine in the defense industry.
• Latvia plans to deploy interceptor drones along its borders with Russia and Belarus within two months.
• Russia has warned Baltic states against allowing Ukraine to use their airspace for strikes, citing potential retaliation.
• Latvia’s PM stated that the country will do everything possible to ensure the drone plant is built and located in the border region.
• Ukraine has previously used drones to target northwestern Russia, with some crashing in Baltic states.
• Russia claims Ukraine is preparing strikes from Baltic states, alleging Latvia allows such operations.