AGP Executive Report

Ukraine Independence Day in the spotlight: Ukraine marked 35 years of independence in Kyiv under heavy Russian attacks, with Zelenskyy urging allies for more money and missiles while warning he won’t surrender. A drone strike hit a crowded shopping center in Kryvyi Rih, killing at least 16. Coalition of the Willing: Leaders gathered in Kyiv to push air-defense supplies, drone funding and pressure on Russia’s economy, as Latvia’s PM Andris Kulbergs backed using frozen Russian assets (about €200 billion) to cover Ukraine’s damage instead of EU taxpayers. Storm and power crisis in the Baltics: A severe summer storm left tens of thousands without electricity in Latvia and Lithuania, with flooding and major transport disruption reported. Latvia in EU defense and security: Latvia’s PM also discussed targeting Russian launchers and accelerating drone agreement implementation. Baltic fishing rules: The EU Commission proposed 2027 Baltic Sea quotas, including higher limits for some herring and sprat, plus sharp by-catch cuts for cod and herring. Arctic summit: Finland will host an EU Arctic summit in September, with Latvia’s PM among attendees. Local angle: Riga’s “Sunflower Road” march in support of Ukraine is set for Monday evening.

Ukraine Support in Focus: On Ukraine’s Independence Day, Kyiv hosted leaders including Latvia’s PM Andris Kulbergs, with talks pushing air-defence supplies and tighter pressure on Russia as strikes kill civilians. Nordic-Baltic Diplomacy: The NB8 summit and a “Coalition of the Willing” meeting in Kyiv underscored continued support, with UK PM Andy Burnham set to join talks and EU Council chief António Costa also in the mix. Latvia-Ukraine Security Ties: Ukraine’s military intelligence chief met Latvian officials to discuss security cooperation and ongoing assistance. Russian Hybrid Pressure: Western reporting says Russia is escalating covert sabotage and cyber attacks on European arms makers, using local criminal intermediaries to keep attribution murky; Latvia’s own arson probe linked to Milrem Robotics remains part of the wider concern. Local Governance & Resilience: After last weekend’s storm, Latvia’s PM said services weren’t coordinated enough, while the fire and rescue chief urged everyone to plan for 72 hours of self-sufficiency. Courtroom Update: Former Bank of Latvia governor Ilmārs Rimšēvičs told court his alleged bribes’ details still haven’t been proven. Business & Culture: Three Baltic film projects won Italian Ministry of Culture backing, signaling growing Italy-Baltic co-production momentum.

Ukraine Support in Focus: Latvia will admit 200 more Ukrainian wounded service members for rehabilitation, PM Andris Kulbergs said during Ukraine’s Flag Day ceremony, adding that thousands are already being treated in Latvia and that the government has approved €4.96 million for medical services for Ukrainian civilians. Nordic-Baltic Diplomacy: Zelenskyy’s push for more air defenses and European funding continues as Nordic and Baltic leaders meet in Kyiv under the NB8 banner, pledging ongoing political, military and winter-prep support and backing faster EU accession talks. Drone Deal Moves Ahead: Latvia and Ukraine have entered a practical implementation phase of the Drone Deal, with plans for a “green corridor” to let selected Ukrainian firms transfer technology and for joint drone and anti-drone production. Hybrid Sabotage Concerns: Western reporting says Russia is behind a new wave of sabotage against European weapons factories under “plausible deniability,” while Latvia detained three suspects over an arson case tied to a drone manufacturing facility in Estonia. Storm Aftermath in Latvia: A powerful cyclone hit the Baltics, with Latvia reporting severe damage and major outages—hundreds of thousands without power and mobile disruptions—plus fatalities and transport disruptions.

Kyiv Diplomacy: Nordic and Baltic leaders—including Latvia’s PM Andris Kulbergs—arrived in Kyiv for Ukraine’s Flag Day and Independence Day, with Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha saying they’ll hold talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky and issue “important decisions.” Storm Aftermath: A powerful cyclone has battered Latvia and the region, killing at least one in Jelgava after a building collapse and leaving hundreds of thousands without power; Riga airport warned of flight delays as trees and debris hit transport and infrastructure. Ukraine Support: Norway pledged about $9.2B for Ukraine in 2027, matching 2026 levels, while Denmark reiterated it will keep supplying weapons and air defense “for as long as necessary.” Security Pressure: Western reporting says Russia is stepping up sabotage against European armaments firms, while Latvia has detained suspects linked to an arson attack on Estonia’s Milrem Robotics drone supplier. Local Watch: Latvia’s National Guard marks its 35th anniversary with a ceremony in Riga despite storm warnings urging people to stay home.

Severe Weather: A powerful storm hit Latvia on Saturday, with red warnings for torrential rain in central areas and orange wind alerts across much of the country; power outages are widespread, with more than 160,000 customers reported without electricity as fallen trees and damage to the grid complicate repairs. Border Security: Latvia detained 28 migrants after they entered from Belarus through an underground tunnel near the border; authorities say it’s the second tunnel case in recent weeks, with irregular crossings rising sharply in 2026. NATO & Drones: Latvia’s security posture remains tense as NATO activity near the Russian and Belarusian borders continues, including reports of drone threats and alerts in the region. UN Ukraine Focus: The UN Security Council will meet on Aug. 24, Ukraine’s Independence Day, to discuss Russia’s war and its consequences, with Latvia among the European initiators. Culture & Film: Riga will host “Ukrainian Film Days in Latvia” from Aug. 28–30, featuring films on war, peace, identity, and history. Sports: In beach volleyball, Canada’s Schachter and Pickett upset world No. 1 Swedes to reach Montreal semifinals, while Latvia’s Tina Graudina and Anastasija Kravcenoka face Canada in the women’s quarterfinals.

Severe Weather Alert: Latvia has issued a red warning for torrential rain and strong winds across parts of central Latvia, including around Riga and Jelgava, from Saturday 8 a.m. to Sunday 1 a.m., with flooding, power and telecom disruptions possible; authorities urge people to avoid non-essential trips and secure loose items, and some events have already been postponed. Border Security: Latvia detained 28 migrants after they crossed from Belarus through an underground tunnel near the border, the second such case in weeks; all detainees were returned to Belarus as irregular crossings continue to rise. NATO Air Policing: Two Turkish F-16s arrived at Latvia’s Lielvārde airbase as part of NATO’s Baltic airspace mission, underscoring allied readiness on the eastern flank. Regional Security Commentary: Former Swedish foreign minister Carl Bildt warned that any Russian aggression in the Baltics would immediately affect Kaliningrad’s security, pointing to heightened NATO activity nearby. Sports—Volleyball: Türkiye opened the European Women’s Volleyball Championship by beating Latvia 3-0 in Istanbul.

Severe Weather Alert: Latvia has issued a red warning for torrential rain and strong winds this weekend, with flood, power and transport disruption risks around Riga and Jelgava, and authorities urging residents to stay indoors where possible. Border Security: Latvia detained 28 migrants after they crossed from Belarus through a camouflaged underground tunnel; it’s the second tunnel case in about ten days, with people returned to Belarus. Cybersecurity Fallout: Latvia’s Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD) is facing mounting public questions after a major cyberattack affecting data tied to 1.2 million people, with officials saying responses require formal signed requests. NATO Air Policing: Two Turkish F-16s landed at Latvia’s Lielvārde base as part of the Baltic Air Policing mission, underscoring allied readiness on the eastern flank. State & Culture: Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs marked the 35th anniversary of restored de facto independence, while poet Māra Zālīte received Latvia’s Statehood Award at Riga Castle. Sports: Türkiye beat Latvia 3-0 in the women’s volleyball EuroVolley opener.

Statehood & Culture: Latvia’s de facto independence restoration is marked with a Saeima ceremonial sitting and the Statehood Award going to poet/playwright Māra Zālīte at Riga Castle. Border Security: Latvia says it has found another Belarus-linked underground migrant tunnel near the Krāslava border, after 28 people were detained trying to cross underground; authorities also keep scanning the border area for more tunnels. Defense & Drones: Latvia confirms a drone shot down by NATO over Balvi on Aug. 14 was Ukrainian, with officials saying it likely entered from Belarus. Sanctions Pressure: Latvia has started publishing a monthly “list of shame” naming about 170 companies trading with Russia and Belarus, as part of efforts to cut funding for aggressor states. Weather: Riga and much of Latvia brace for a storm with heavy rain, possible flooding, and strong winds over the weekend. Business & Tech: Citadele Banka says an Azure AI agent and document automation have cut call wait times to under five seconds and sped up document processing dramatically.

Latvia–Lithuania Security Talks: Latvian PM Andris Kulbergs met Lithuanian PM Mindaugas Sinkevičius in Riga, focusing on EU eastern-border protection, tackling illegal migration as a hybrid threat, and boosting cooperation on transport projects like Rail Baltica. Border & Drone Updates: Latvia’s National Armed Forces said a drone shot down in Balvi on Aug. 14 was Ukrainian and entered from Belarus, likely influenced by Russian electronic warfare; NATO fighters also downed the drone, with wreckage later neutralised. CSDD Cyber Fallout: Latvia’s president asked the prosecutor general to review officials’ actions after a major CSDD cyberattack exposed data on about 1.2 million people; the entire CSDD management stepped down and an interim board was appointed to keep operations stable. Consumer Finance Change: Parliament adopted amendments letting people “ban” themselves from taking out loans via credit bureaus, with lenders required to consider it and follow tighter rules on overdrafts and debt collection. Regional Rail Funding Push: Lithuania’s PM urged the Baltics to fight for Rail Baltica money in the 2028–2034 EU budget. Sports & Culture: Latvia selected the film “Ulya” for the Academy Awards’ international feature race, and Latvia’s women’s volleyball teams will be in the EuroVolley 2026 groups starting Aug. 21.

Cybersecurity & Accountability: Latvia’s President Rinkēvičs has asked the prosecutor general to review officials at the Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD) after a major cyberattack exposed data on about 1.2 million people, with the transport minister ordering an expedited internal probe and CSDD management stepping down. Aviation Rescue & State Support: Latvia’s parliament has given preliminary “green light” to possible state involvement in airBaltic’s financial stabilisation, including bridge-financing bonds and converting state-held bonds into equity, as the airline cuts fleet size and capacity. Trade Transparency: Latvia’s Central Statistical Bureau has started publishing a list of companies trading with Belarus and Russia, aiming to let the public and partners see who is still exporting or importing. Language Policy: Responsibility for adult Latvian language proficiency testing is set to shift from the State Education Development Agency to the Latvian Language Agency, with a push to unify methods. Security Research Rules: The Defence Ministry has drafted amendments to allow “good-faith” security researchers to access systems to identify vulnerabilities under proportionate limits. Weather Watch: Forecasters warn of heavy rain and thunderstorms across Latvia, with gusty winds along the coast.

Cybersecurity Crisis: Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs has asked the prosecutor general to review actions at the Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD) after a major cyberattack exposed data tied to about 1.2 million people and 200,000 companies, prompting resignations from CSDD’s management and supervisory council and raising fresh questions about responsibility and oversight. Political Fallout: Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs says governance of state-owned firms has become a “political retirement home,” while coalition partners clash over whether the state should be allowed to inject more money into airBaltic. airBaltic Fight: The Saeima Budget and Finance Committee backed a draft law that could enable state participation in airBaltic stabilization, but the Greens and Farmers’ Union oppose the package without changes, calling it unclear and too costly. Border Pressure: Latvia is tightening border security amid threats from Russia and Belarus, including irregular migration and drone risks, as officials warn of a wider hybrid pressure campaign. Baltic Economy: Estonia’s Agrone/Falber Investments has agreed to buy Latvia’s Rīgas piena kombināts (and Valmieras piens), a deal that could reshape dairy brands across the region. Culture & Society: A Canadian Forces band is set to tour Latvia’s regions, while Latvia’s National Cultural Council has elected new leadership.

Cybersecurity & Accountability: Latvia’s CSDD cyberattack fallout keeps growing: the state says 1.2 million people’s data and 200,000 firms were hit, while Transport Minister Rihards Kozlovskis has pushed CSDD board and management resignations and launched an urgent probe into what went wrong, including the Tet monitoring contract. Border Security: Latvia is tightening its eastern border posture as migrants, drones and war fears blur into one security challenge, with “Operation Werewolf” targeting illegal crossers. National Defence Law: New amendments let the armed forces temporarily use private land for up to 14 days (extendable) to deploy air defence and protective measures during threats. airBaltic Rescue: A Saeima committee backed possible state participation in airBaltic stabilisation, including up to €30m in interim financing bonds and converting €50m in existing bonds into equity. Housing: Rīga plans affordable rental flats under a public-private partnership, aiming for 732 homes by 2030 in several districts. Culture & Film: Latvia’s Oscar bid is set: “Ulya / Uļa” was chosen as the country’s candidate for Best International Feature, with filming and casting spanning multiple Baltic partners. Weather: Expect brief showers and possible thunderstorms, with highs around +18 to +22°C.

Cybersecurity Shock: Latvia’s Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD) says a major cyberattack stole personal data of 1.2 million people and information tied to about 200,000 companies, including names, payment details, vehicle licence plates and addresses; Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs ordered an investigation and criticized delayed notification, warning the data could be used for fraud. Aviation & Economy: With airBaltic under financial strain, Latvia’s PM says it’s a “last chance” to save the airline, while Business Confederation head suggests LOT could move into the Baltic market if airBaltic falters. Defense & Borders: President Edgars Rinkēvičs visited the Latvia–Belarus border, stressing shortages of guards and equipment amid migration pressure and leaving open the possibility of closing crossings. Culture & Film: Viesturs Kairišs’ biographical drama “Ulya / Uļa” was chosen as Latvia’s Oscar bid for Best International Feature Film. Environment: The government loosened rules for cutting larger trees outside forests, raising the permit-free threshold from 20 cm to 30 cm stump diameter, with municipalities able to set stricter limits. Sports: Latvia beat Romania 91–46 to reach quarter-finals, led by Nadine Graudina’s five three-pointers and 23 points.

airBaltic Rescue Talks: Latvia’s PM says it’s the “last chance” to save airBaltic as creditors consider concessions and the airline seeks bridge financing and new equity to avoid insolvency, with possible job cuts looming. Border Security: President Edgars Rinkēvičs reports major upgrades along the Latvia–Belarus border, with sensors and cameras expanding but staffing still a key problem. Hybrid Threat Warning: Rinkēvičs says Russia’s hybrid war is already underway, pointing to sabotage, provocations and espionage concerns. Education Funding: Eurostat data shows Latvia spends less on education than the EU average, with spending fluctuating over the past decade. Energy Update: Solar remains Latvia’s biggest electricity source in July, supplying 55% of generation, while overall local production covered about 73% of consumption. Public Safety Campaign: Latvia’s road safety directorate launches a seatbelt reminder signal to tackle deaths linked to unfastened seatbelts. Economy & Demographics: Latvia’s births fell and deaths rose in the first half of 2026, while foreign investment projects in 2025 created nearly half of new jobs in the Baltics. Culture & Film: Latvia’s Oscar nominee is Viesturs Kairišs’ “Uļa (Ulya),” set for mid-September cinema release. Food Industry: Orkla Latvia plans a €5.4m upgrade to expand Spilva sauce production in Babīte. Sports: Latvia opens EuroVolley 2026 women’s campaign against Türkiye in Istanbul. Other Latvia News: Four migrants were detained near Ķekava, and the public is invited to vote for Latvia’s “Building of the Year.”

EU Defence Funding Push: Latvia’s PM Andris Kulbergs says Riga needs about €7bn from the EU to cover defence costs and the economic hit from cutting ties with Russia, warning the country is borrowing to “defend the whole of Europe.” Border Security Boost: President Edgars Rinkēvičs called for adding up to 200 State Border Guard personnel for rapid response on the Latvia–Belarus border, stressing fences and sensors must be matched by fast human action. Drone Threat Watch: Latvia says a drone shot down on Aug 14 entered from Belarus, with Defence Minister Raivis Melnis warning risks will persist and that more counter-drone and radar systems are being rolled out along the border. airBaltic Update: Bondholders backed capitalising interest payments on the airline’s €380m bonds, moving two interest payments into the bond principal instead of cash payouts. Internal Security Case: Latvia’s State Security Service asked prosecutors to pursue a Daugavpils separatism supporter who promoted the idea on TikTok. Local Economy & Policy: Latvia’s central bank published its Financial Stability Report in English, warning defence spending and rising public debt increase fiscal-policy risks. Sports: Latvia’s beach volleyball pair Tīna Graudiņa & Anastasija Samoilova won bronze at the CEV EuroBeachVolley in Poland.

Financial Watch: Latvia’s central bank says the financial system is stable, but warns rising public debt and delayed improvements in how public spending pays off could force sharp fiscal and tax changes. EU Funding Push: Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs says Latvia needs about €7bn from the EU to cover higher defence costs and the economic fallout of cutting ties with Russia. Border Pressure: Latvia reports nearly 9,900 illegal border-crossing attempts since the start of the year, with 182 prevented over three days; enhanced Belarus border protection runs until year-end. Drone Tensions: Defence Minister Raivis Melnis says a drone shot down over Latvia came from Belarus, with origin still unclear; Latvia says it will keep shooting down drones to protect residents. airBaltic Crisis: Latvia’s public broadcaster reports creditors will meet on airBaltic’s future as the airline seeks restructuring and new interim financing, with job risks flagged. Cyber & Scams: Latvian State Forests blames a communication failure for a cyber attack; Swedbank warns of renewed scam emails urging customers to “update details.” Culture & Sports: The BFI London Film Festival unveiled its 70th official competition lineup, while Latvia’s U16 basketball team claimed a European title.