Poland to increase the number of military contingent in Latvia.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense of Poland, Mariusz Błaszczak, visited Latvia and announced plans to increase the Polish military contingent in the country. He noted that additional soldiers will arrive in Latvia in June, bringing the total number of Polish troops to about 300. In particular, among the new soldiers will be a chemical regiment. Błaszczak emphasized that Poland has been a guarantor of Latvia's defense against the USSR during the interwar period. Latvia’s Minister of Defense, Andrejs Spruds, also highlighted the importance of cooperation between Latvia and Poland. He pointed out that both countries share a common view on strategic prospects and understand the challenges they face. 'Our security is connected in many ways. We have a similar view of our strategic perspective. We are fully aware of what we need to do together. We are completely aware of the challenges and opponents we are facing. We know what tasks we must accomplish together. So we are preparing our homework,' Spruds said. Błaszczak also stressed the challenges facing Poland and the Baltic countries, noting that it is necessary to protect critical infrastructure in the Baltic Sea. He called for increased defense spending and the development of the European defense industry. It should be noted that a multinational NATO battalion, commanded by Canadians, operates in Latvia. The Polish military contingent is there on a rotational basis. Increasing the number of Polish troops in Latvia is an important step towards strengthening defense cooperation between these countries and ensuring the security of the region. Additionally, the need to increase defense spending and develop the defense industry reflects a serious commitment to Europe's security and the need to enhance defense capabilities.