Latvia Prepares for UN Security Council Role in 2026

Latvia is gearing up to take on its first term at the UN Security Council starting January 2026. In a recent vote with participation from 188 nations, 178 backed the Eastern European countries.

Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Brajé, who was present at the UN headquarters in New York, expressed that the country is prepared to engage with ongoing conflicts, particularly the situations involving Ukraine and the tensions between Israel and Hamas. Leading up to its time on the council, Riga has emphasized the importance of seeking a peaceful resolution for all parties involved.

“Our aim on the UN Security Council is to promote a just and lasting peace—not just in Ukraine, but also in the Middle East and other areas of conflict. We want to contribute to global security and reinforce international order in line with the UN Charter,” Brajé said last week during her address at the UN.

As the Ukraine war continues, the conflict hits close to home for Brajé and Latvia, which, like Ukraine, was once part of the Soviet Union before gaining independence in 1991. She pointed out that Russian President Vladimir Putin employs “traditional Russian-Soviet tactics,” which often involve delaying negotiations. However, she believes there are effective ways to exert pressure on the Kremlin to pursue peace.

Regarding the ongoing crisis in Gaza, Brajé acknowledged the need for humanitarian support but stated that Latvia maintains a neutral stance on the specific delivery methods for aid. She emphasized that the focus ought to be on providing assistance to vulnerable populations.

“It’s crucial to ensure that help reaches those in Gaza who need it most,” she said, highlighting the complex dynamics involved.

In a broader context, Brajé suggested that limiting Russia’s economic resources and technological access is essential for fostering a stable and lasting peace. She stressed the importance of keeping oil prices down and limiting exports, which could, in turn, impact Russia’s military capabilities.

“Russia’s alliance with China is significant, and they rely heavily on exports from China. It’s a real concern that Russia might redirect some of those resources toward military enhancements,” she stated.

As for the future of Ukraine, she deliberately left room for Ukraine to define its own path to victory. “Ultimately, it’s up to Ukraine to determine what peace and success look like for them—asserting their sovereignty and reclaiming control over their territory,” Brajé explained.

This evolving situation indeed calls for a multifaceted approach, with Latvia ready to support efforts toward peace and stability in the region.