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On 16 December 2025, Artjoms Uršuļskis, Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, participated in the European Union (EU) General Affairs Council meeting in Brussels, where views were exchanged on the EU enlargement process, the draft conclusions of the upcoming European Council meeting on 18 and 19 December, and the next EU multiannual budget for the period 2028-2034.
In the discussion on preparations for the European Council, Artjoms Uršuļskis stated that a solution that would ensure fair and lasting peace in Ukraine must guarantee Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, as well as its foreign policy choices. Artjoms Uršuļskis also called on the European Council to agree on 18 and 19 December to provide financial support to Ukraine through the Reparations Loan Facility:
“Such a decision would contribute to both strong support for Ukraine and maintaining pressure on Russia. It would support Ukraine’s budget and military needs, as well as strengthen its position in the peace process, while sending a clear signal and putting pressure on Russia.”
The meeting assessed the progress made by the EU enlargement countries over the past year, with particular emphasis on the progress made by Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine, and Moldova. The Parliamentary Secretary emphasised that EU enlargement is a strategic priority and that we are ready to move forward with countries that have shown progress, including Ukraine. Latvia appreciates Ukraine’s progress and determination in implementing reforms in wartime conditions. Ukraine is part of Europe, and Latvia will continue to support Ukraine’s integration into the EU by providing political and practical support. At the same time, Latvia expressed regret that the joint conclusions of the 27 EU Member States on EU enlargement were not approved, but were replaced by a statement from the Danish Presidency of the EU.
In the discussion on the next EU multiannual budget, it was highlighted that Latvia still does not see any solutions that would provide additional support to the EU’s eastern border countries in addressing socio-economic, territorial and security challenges. The proposals also do not provide for funding to ensure fair and honest support for farmers in the area of direct payments. In order to reach an agreement on the next EU multiannual budget, the proposal must be balanced and take into account the needs of all Member States.