Flickr
On 19 August 2025, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Baiba Braže, met with the United States Congressman Andy Harris, who is in Latvia for a visit. During their meeting, the officials focused on military cooperation between Latvia and the U.S., and efforts by the U.S. and the European Allies to achieve peace in Ukraine.
Baiba Braže underlined that Latvia highly values President Trump’s efforts to stop Russia’s war of aggression and achieve a just and lasting peace and security for Ukraine. A continued U.S. support is vital for Ukraine and European security. U.S. pressure is crucial for achieving Russia’s engagement in a genuine peace process.
The Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of a close strategic partnership between Latvia and the U.S., and she also welcomed the unwavering support from the U.S. for the security of Latvia and the Baltic states: “Thanks to a strong support offered by the Congress, Latvia has the opportunity to further develop its defence capabilities to strengthen NATO’s eastern flank, including through indispensable military procurement from the U.S.”
In addition to the issues of strong security cooperation, the conversation also addressed an economic dialogue with the U.S.
Andy Harris is a Republican Congressman serving as a representative from Maryland. He is the House Freedom Caucus Chairman and a member of the House Baltic Caucus since February 2024. The U.S. Congressman is staying in Latvia from 18 to 20 August at the invitation of the Saeima (the Latvian Parliament). As part of his visit, Congressman Harris will meet with members of the Saeima, the Prime Minister, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Defence, and tour the Ādaži military base.