At the EU Foreign Affairs Council, Latvia raises the issue of barring Russia from participating in the Venice Biennale and imposing sanctions on representatives closely linked to the Russian political regime who use culture to achieve Russia’s war aims

On 21 April 2026 in Luxembourg, the Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Artjoms Uršuļskis, emphasised at the meeting of the European Union (EU) Foreign Affairs Council: “The situation on the battlefield in Ukraine is currently better than it was in 2025, and gains by Russian armed forces are minimal; moreover, Ukraine is making a significant contribution to European and global security. However, the EU must continue the work it has begun by providing all forms of support to Ukraine, and the results of the Hungarian elections provide a basis for a positive dynamic in advancing key political decisions. The EUR 90 billion loan to support Ukraine must be unblocked urgently. The options for providing military support to Ukraine through the European Peace Facility must be reassessed, unblocking funding amounting to EUR 6.6 billion. It is important to approve the 20th round of EU sanctions against Russia without further delay and to begin work on further restrictive measures, as well as to continue the policy of international isolation against Russia.” 

Addressing the issue of barring Russia from participating in the Venice Biennale, the Parliamentary Secretary noted: “Russia’s widespread attacks on Ukrainian culture, language, and identity, as well as the persecution and destruction of its artistic figures and cultural and religious sites, call for a united and strong European response, including denying participation and imposing sanctions on Russian representatives who are closely linked to the Russian political regime and use culture to achieve Russia’s war aims.”

Since February 2022, Latvia’s total support for Ukraine has exceeded EUR 1 billion, or 0.6% of GDP. More than half of this – EUR 675 million – is military aid, while humanitarian aid and support to the Government of Ukraine amount to EUR 92 million; support for Ukrainian civilians in Latvia amounts to EUR 304 million; and support for reforms, development, and reconstruction amounts to EUR 17 million. In February, the Government of Latvia allocated an additional EUR 10 million to a NATO initiative to provide Ukraine with critically needed military equipment, and in March it allocated EUR 6.8 million to support Ukraine’s reconstruction. In 2026 as well, 0.25% of GDP is planned to be allocated to military support for Ukraine.

Artjoms Uršuļskis emphasised that stable and reliable security guarantees are essential for ensuring a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. The US remains a significant diplomatic and military contributor to Ukraine. He also noted that the EU’s support for Ukrainian war veterans will have an impact Ukraine’s recovery and stability, as well as promote social cohesion, thereby contributing to European security. By implementing the NATO Renovator project, Latvia has taken the lead in renovating a Ukrainian military hospital, thereby improving rehabilitation conditions for Ukrainian war veterans.

Discussing further pressure on Russia, Artjoms Uršuļskis pointed out that the 20th round of EU sanctions against Russia must be approved immediately. It is important to continue containing and isolating Russia while preparing proposals for the 21st round of sanctions. Artjoms Uršuļskis highlighted the need to cease further economic relations with Russia, including by urging companies from EU Member States to withdraw from the Russian market. Ministers also agreed to include additional individuals in the EU sanctions regime regarding Russia’s destabilising activities in the EU, as well as to extend the EU sanctions regime regarding destabilising activities in Moldova for one year.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Andrii Sybiha, participated in the meeting via videoconference.

Discussing the situation in the Middle East, Artjoms Uršuļskis noted: “A comprehensive and sustainable agreement must be reached between the US and Iran to mitigate regional and global threats. Latvia supports international efforts to ensure freedom of maritime navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The events of recent months should help the Gulf states better understand the security challenges posed by Russia in our region. Latvia maintains close contacts with the Gulf states and is ready to develop bilateral cooperation in the field of defence.” 

The Foreign Ministers also discussed the situation in the South Caucasus region, including EU support and engagement in the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Artjoms Uršuļskis emphasised the importance of strengthening Armenia’s resilience against Russia’s attempts to interfere with the upcoming parliamentary elections on 7 June and to influence the peace process and stability in the region. Latvia is ready to provide expertise both bilaterally and through joint initiatives. The Foreign Affairs Council formally adopted a decision on the establishment of an EU Common Security and Defence Policy civilian mission to support Armenia in combating hybrid threats. Discussing the situation in Georgia, the Parliamentary Secretary noted: “Under the current circumstances, the EU must continue to limit contacts and cooperation with politicians and institutions of the ruling power, while strengthening support for civil society, independent media, and youth.”

The Foreign Ministers of the Baltic and Nordic countries also held an informal working meeting with the European Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos, to discuss the progress of the EU enlargement process, particularly Ukraine’s European integration. Artjoms Uršuļskis expressed satisfaction with Ukraine’s progress on reforms to date, urging the country to maintain the current pace of reform.