Latvia’s foreign minister Baiba Braže told the EU Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels on 15 December that Latvia will never recognize the territories of Ukraine that are currently occupied by Russia as part of Russian sovereign territory.
Position and Calls for Action
During the council’s closing session, Braže stressed that “all EU levers of influence should be used to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine,” according to a Foreign Ministry press release. She reiterated, “Latvia will never recognize the incorporation of the currently occupied Ukrainian territories into Russia.”
She added that Russia continues its aggression against civilian infrastructure and citizens, and that “Russia alone is an obstacle to achieving a sustainable and just peace in Ukraine.” Braže urged Europe to apply “peace through force” and maximise pressure on Moscow.
Braže also emphasized that Ukraine needs more than air defence – it requires ammunition and long‑range precision‑guided weapons to strike Russian military targets and protect civilians.
Sanctions and Wider Diplomatic Moves
The council imposed sanctions on four legal entities and five individuals tied to the “shadow fleet” of cargo ships that evade sanctions. Braže highlighted her role in pushing for these measures, noting she had advocated for rapid action at the November EU Foreign Affairs Council.
Additional sanctions targeted 12 individuals and two legal entities accused of spreading propaganda, disinformation, and destabilising activities across Europe.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sibikha, joining remotely, briefed EU ministers on ongoing peace talks, internal reforms, Ukraine’s readiness for EU discussions, and the need to ensure the unconditional return of children abducted by Russia.
Potential Next Steps
Analysts suggest that the EU could further tighten maritime restrictions if the shadow fleet expands its activities. Continued coordination with the United States, as indicated by Braže’s recent remarks in Washington, may lead to more synchronized diplomatic and military assistance for Ukraine. However, the prospect of any territorial concessions remains unlikely given Latvia’s explicit refusal to recognise Russian control.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Latvia’s foreign minister say about recognising occupied Ukrainian territories?
She declared that Latvia will never recognise the incorporation of the currently occupied Ukrainian territories into Russia.
What sanctions were adopted at the EU Foreign Affairs Council?
The council sanctioned four legal entities and five individuals linked to Russia’s “shadow fleet,” as well as 12 individuals and two legal entities involved in propaganda and destabilising activities.
What additional support does Ukraine need according to Braže?
Beyond air defence, Ukraine requires ammunition and long‑range precision‑guided weapons to hit Russian military targets and protect civilians and infrastructure.
How do you think these developments might shape the future of EU‑Russia relations?
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