Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz said on Thursday that the number of Polish troops stationed in Latvia will rise to around 300 by June.
Speaking at the Ādaži military base during a visit to the Polish military contingent, he reaffirmed Poland’s commitment to NATO and regional security.
Kosiniak-Kamysz, who met with Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprūds during the visit, said the incoming deployment would include chemical warfare specialists from Poland’s chemical regiment, highlighting the growing complexity of joint operations.
He also stressed the importance of joint defense projects, noting that Poland and Latvia are seeking increased EU funding to support arms production.
"We’re ready to invest together in the defense industry," Kosiniak-Kamysz said, citing initiatives such as the Eastern Shield defense program.
The ministers underscored their countries’ leadership roles within NATO’s European defense coalitions - Latvia in drone capabilities, and Poland in armored vehicle support for Ukraine.
A drone capabilities summit, hosted by Latvia, is expected to be held soon with Polish participation.
Kosiniak-Kamysz further called for a stronger NATO presence in the Baltic Sea region, which he described as “an internal NATO sea.”
He highlighted Poland’s involvement in the newly established Baltic Guard mission to protect critical infrastructure and boost regional security.
Commenting on Latvia’s recent decision to withdraw from the Ottawa Treaty banning anti-personnel mines, Kosiniak-Kamysz called it a coordinated response among regional allies - including Poland, Finland, and the Baltic states - to increased security threats.
Latvia's Sprūds thanked Poland for its continued support. “An even greater presence of Polish troops highlights our strategic partnership and shared commitment to regional defense,” he said.
During the visit, both ministers presented awards to members of the Polish military stationed in Latvia.
Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz and Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprūds meet at the Ādaži military base in Latvia on Thursday, April 17, 2025. Photo: PAP/Edyta Roś
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Source: IAR/PAP/X/@KosiniakKamysz/@MON_GOV_PL