Election in Latvia: United list under Kulbergs clearly leads populist parties

In the parliamentary elections in Latvia, an EU and NATO country, there are signs of a clear victory for Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs' United List electoral alliance. According to the Reuters news agency, the center-right group came to 36.6 percent after counting 88 percent of the votes. The populist parties “Latvia First” followed far behind with 13.4 percent and Sovereign Power with 11.6 percent.

Kulbergs was surprised by the result. He wanted to remain prime minister, but he ruled out a coalition with “Latvia First”. Difficult coalition negotiations are expected.

"We are Europe's external border, which must be strong"

The election was marked by concerns about possible Russian aggression. The Baltic states have been warning for months that Russia is carrying out hybrid attacks and acts of sabotage in Europe to weaken support for Ukraine and stoke fear. Western government officials, however, currently consider a direct Russian attack on NATO member Latvia to be unlikely. The government in Moscow rejected the allegations from the Baltics as unfounded.

When he cast his vote in the capital Riga, Prime Minister Kulbergs emphasized the security policy importance of the election. “We cannot be the weakest link. We have to be strong,” said the head of government. The entire eastern flank must show unity. "That's what we strive for. We are Europe's external border, which must be strong."

In addition, socio-political and economic issues also played a major role in the election campaign. Since Latvia is investing heavily in its security, there is a lack of money elsewhere. The health system is suffering, emigration and aging are a problem. Many people complain about high prices and low salaries, and the economy is stalling.