Latvia to Spearhead Drone Coalition to Bolster Ukraine

The growing list of military aid to help shore up Ukraine's air defenses comes as Russia vows to respond if NATO air bases are used by Ukrainian F-16s.

Kimberly Johnson

Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at 03:19 PM ET

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Ukraine's defense minister Rustem Umerov (left) met with Latvia's minister of defense Andris Spruds Wednesday. [Courtesy: Ministry of Defense, Republic of Latvia]

Key Takeaways:

Latvia will lead a new drone coalition to bolster Ukraine's defenses, recognizing drones as a crucial and increasingly decisive factor in modern warfare.
Nordic countries are significantly increasing their support for Ukraine, providing substantial military aid including air defense systems, drones, ammunition, and humanitarian assistance.
Russia issued a warning, stating that any use of NATO air bases in neighboring countries for Ukrainian F-16 combat sorties would be considered direct participation in the war and would lead to "response measures."
The United States reaffirmed its commitment to Ukraine, with President Biden authorizing an additional $200 million in security assistance during President Zelenskyy's visit to Washington, D.C.

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Latvia will spearhead a new drone coalition to help bolster Ukraine’s defenses against Russia, according to defense leaders of both countries.

The news is the latest in a growing list of aid funneling into Ukraine more than 21 months after Russia launched its invasion and also comes as a Russian official issued a warning for NATO air bases supporting defense operations in the war-torn country.