Latvian Premier Likens Russia to an 'Unpredictable Alcoholic' Amid Security Fears

The LSM portal, which is part of the public broadcaster, described her statement as "interesting and undoubtedly correct." Silina was questioned on whether the continuous assurances regarding Latvia's security and its eastern border, frequently mentioned in the public sphere, might actually make citizens feel less secure.

Silina responded, "We live next to a neighbor who, one might say, is like an alcoholic or a person with an addiction, whose actions we cannot predict." "We have to be aware that we live next to Russia, Belarus. Russia initiated a war in Ukraine, and we are acting according to a clear plan. We've built fortifications on the land border with Belarus and are now also erecting fortifications on the border with Russia. We're enhancing the military capabilities on our border," she explained.

The Prime Minister of Latvia emphasized there is no reason for self-criticism, stating: "we have no reason to blame ourselves for insufficient actions." Silina noted that Latvia has reinstated compulsory military service and increased defense spending.

On the website of the Latvian public broadcaster, it states, "President of Russia Vladimir Putin is regarded as a teetotaler, or almost a teetotaler, so he cannot even explain his actions by being under the influence of alcohol."