Latvia’s Foreign Minister Urges Continued Pressure on Russia as Peace Talks Stall

Washington – Latvia’s Foreign Minister Baiba Braže asserts that Russia lacks a genuine commitment to ending the war in Ukraine, advocating for sustained military and economic pressure to compel Moscow to engage in serious negotiations. Her statements come as peace talks remain largely unproductive, with the Kremlin offering few significant concessions.

Kremlin’s Lack of Political Will

Speaking in Washington on February 26, 2026, Foreign Minister Braže told RFE/RL, “We are not seeing that,” when asked if Russian President Vladimir Putin was genuinely seeking peace. While some technical-level military engagement has occurred, she emphasized a “political commitment is not there.” Source: RFE/RL

“Peace Through Strength” Approach

Braže endorsed a “peace through strength” approach, advocating for consistent pressure on Russia through continued support for Ukraine, sanctions, and other policy instruments. She believes this approach will accelerate the path to peace. This includes tightening and enforcing existing sanctions, preventing circumvention, and limiting Russia’s access to technology and partnerships.

Understanding Russia’s Objectives

Braže highlighted the importance of understanding Russia’s broader objectives and doctrine. She explained that Russia aims to prevent Ukraine from becoming “an independent, democratic, strong nation,” viewing it as a threat to its imperial ambitions. She recalled how the 2014 Maidan protests, triggered by then-President Viktor Yanukovych’s decision to abandon closer ties with the EU, led to Russia’s annexation of Crimea and the escalation of conflict in eastern Ukraine. Source: RFE/RL

Russia’s Broader Destabilization Efforts

Beyond Ukraine, Braže warned of Russia’s ongoing cyberattacks, information operations, and sabotage in countries including the United States, the Czech Republic, Britain, and Germany. The aim, she stated, is to sow confusion, divide societies, and hinder governments from increasing defense spending or maintaining support for Kyiv.

NATO’s Role and Ukraine’s EU Aspirations

Braže stressed the importance of NATO allies investing in hard defense capabilities to deter further Russian aggression. She also highlighted Ukraine’s trajectory toward European integration, noting that practical work toward adopting EU laws and meeting the Copenhagen criteria is progressing despite Hungary’s current blockage of formal accession negotiations. She emphasized that EU accession is not simply about a date, but about building robust institutions and preparing for regulatory changes. Source: RFE/RL

EU’s Independence in Negotiations

Responding to suggestions by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov that the EU was not invited to peace talks, Braže was firm: “Only the EU decides about EU’s issues. There will be no decisions about the EU without the EU.” She asserted that Moscow is mistaken if it believes anyone else can represent the EU’s interests.

Transatlantic Alliance Remains Crucial

Braže underscored the enduring importance of the transatlantic alliance between Europe and North America, including Canada, as a cornerstone of European security. She urged leaders to address disagreements directly and remove economic obstacles to strengthen the partnership.

Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže also stated that Russia is not winning the war in Ukraine. Source: CBS News

Braze also stated that Putin is counting on the West to get tired. Source: VOA News