Latvian Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs is set to stay in power and create a pro-Ukrainian coalition after his centrist party, United List, won the largest victory in parliamentary elections since 1991. With 97% of ballots counted, United List received 35.3%, securing 42 of the 100 available seats in parliament. Kulbergs, a businessman, became Prime Minister in May after his predecessor’s coalition fell apart due to issues with stray Ukrainian military drones entering Latvia.
Kulbergs has promised to improve governance, reduce bureaucracy, and cut public spending to address the country’s economic underperformance compared to its Baltic neighbors. Political scientists note that he has gained support by presenting himself as a capable leader who can bring new energy and results. Kulbergs is expected to form a majority with either the nationalist National Alliance or the liberal Progressives.
He has committed to continued support for Ukraine and maintaining a strong stance against Russia, emphasizing that economic ties with Russia could pose a risk. Voter turnout was 51.8%, a decrease from the previous election. Following United List, the populist Latvia First and the pro-Russian Sovereign Power party ranked second and third. Despite pro-Russian parties gaining seats, they are not expected to significantly influence government policy. The ethnic Russian minority in Latvia faces mixed feelings about the war in Ukraine and domestic policies affecting their public life.
With information from Reuters
