Latvia’s Braže to Advocate for Ukraine Support and Increased Sanctions at EU Foreign Affairs Council

Brussels, Belgium – On February 23, 2026, Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže will participate in the EU Foreign Affairs Council, held one day before the four-year mark of Russia’s war in Ukraine. The meeting will also be attended by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha.

Key Discussion Points

The EU Foreign Affairs Council agenda will focus on several critical areas, including:

• Further Containment of Russia: Discussions will center on implementing a new 20th round of sanctions against Russia and intensifying efforts to target its “shadow fleet” and associated networks.
• Support for Ukraine: Ministers will address Ukraine’s ongoing needs for self-defense capabilities, particularly within its energy sector, and provide support for the civilian population facing a severe winter with widespread disruptions to heat and electricity, including in Kyiv.
• Middle East Situation: The council will review the implementation of the Gaza Peace Plan, the situation in Iran, and developments in Syria. Nikolai Mladenov, Special Representative of the Executive Committee in Gaza Peace Councils, will participate in this segment.
• Resilience Against Foreign Information Manipulation: Following an initiative by EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, an informal discussion will be held regarding strategies to enhance resilience against foreign information manipulation and interference.

The Role of the EU Foreign Affairs Council

The EU Foreign Affairs Council is responsible for examining issues related to the EU’s external action, encompassing common foreign and security policy, European security and defense policy, foreign trade, and development cooperation. Its primary objective is to ensure the unity, consistency, and effectiveness of the EU’s external policies.

As stated by the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Latvia remains a strong supporter of Ukraine, allocating approximately EUR 1 billion in aid since the start of the war, with an additional EUR 1 million donated by Latvian citizens.

According to GlobalSecurity.org, Minister Braže has emphasized that Russia’s actions demonstrate no willingness to pursue peace, with ongoing aggression resulting in civilian casualties.

The Ukrainian Rada reports that Latvia will continue to provide Ukraine with all possible assistance and will advocate for strengthening sanctions against Russia and its shadow fleet.