Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže declared during the annual foreign policy debate that Latvia will not accept new migrants, emphasizing the country's reinforced border protection measures against illegal migration. The government's position prioritizes national security amidst ongoing hybrid threats.
The Latvian section of the ambitious Rail Baltica project is projected to be delayed by three to five years beyond its initial 2030 completion target for the first phase. Māris Dzelme, chairman of Eiropas Dzelzceļa līnijas, cited significant funding issues and escalating costs as the primary reasons for the setback, necessitating a redesign to reduce the project's scope.
Latvia's Food and Veterinary Service confirmed the year's first African swine fever outbreak at the 'Vaiņodes bekons' pig farm in the South Kurzeme region, affecting over 22,000 pigs. A quarantine zone has been established, with strict movement restrictions and intensified biosecurity checks to prevent further spread.
Latvia and Canada have signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Rīga to bolster cooperation in military equipment, infrastructure, and services procurement. The agreement, signed by State Secretary Aivars Puriņš and Antony Rizk of the Canadian Commercial Corporation, aims to create a structured basis for joint defense industry projects.
During a meeting in Kyiv on January 16, 2026, Latvian Saeima Speaker Daiga Mieriņa reiterated Latvia's unwavering support for Ukraine's Euro-Atlantic integration. She affirmed Latvia's commitment to Ukraine's path toward EU membership and integration into NATO, emphasizing its importance for European security. President Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Latvia's consistent aid.
International credit rating agency Moody's has affirmed Latvia's credit rating at 'A3' with a stable outlook, citing strong public finances, solid institutions, and effective fiscal policy. The decision, announced on January 16, 2026, reflects confidence in Latvia's economic resilience despite geopolitical risks and increased defense spending.
Latvia's State Audit Office has concluded that the country's strategies to combat the shadow economy are ineffective, focusing on consequences rather than root causes. Despite government efforts, the shadow economy is estimated to be between 7% and over 20% of GDP, with the latest plan for 2024-2027 not expected to yield significant improvements. Finance Minister Arvils Ašeradens disputes the audit's findings, citing recent reductions in the shadow economy and tax gaps.
Latvian Minister of Defence Andris Sprūds observed a prototype of a radio signal jamming system developed by SAF Tehnika on January 14, 2026. This system, designed to neutralize unmanned aerial vehicles by disrupting their communications, is part of Latvia's broader €10 million initiative to bolster national and European counter-drone defenses.
A yellow weather alert has been issued for a significant portion of Latvia's Kurzeme region for Sunday, January 11th, 2026. The Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre (LVĢMC) forecasts heavy snowfall, leading to increased snow cover, reduced visibility, and slippery road conditions. Residents are advised to exercise caution.
The Rīga City Council is providing extensive crisis assistance and temporary housing to residents displaced by a fatal gas explosion on Bauskas Street in the Torņakalns district. The January 2nd incident resulted in two deaths and significant structural damage to a five-story residential building.
Czechia secured a 4-2 victory over Latvia on New Year's Eve in the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship. The game, held in Minneapolis, saw Czechia overcome an early deficit to finish second in Group B, while Latvia placed fourth, setting their quarter-final matchups.
More than 200 Latvian citizens have been detained as part of an international investigation into a sophisticated 'refund fraud' network. The scheme, which involved Ukrainian law enforcement, laundered over €1.6 million through cryptocurrency platforms, primarily targeting young individuals for recruitment.
Latvia is experiencing gusty northwesterly and northerly winds, with speeds up to 25 m/s on the coast and 23 m/s in Riga, accompanied by precipitation including sleet and rain. An orange warning for strong winds is in effect. Temperatures range from -1°C to +5°C.
Latvia's Foreign Minister Baiba Braže has announced an indefinite entry ban for 14 Russian athletes. The decision, made under Article 61.2 of the Immigration Law, prevents their participation in the upcoming Luge World Cup stage in Sigulda, scheduled for January 3-4, 2026. This move underscores Latvia's stance against athletes from what it terms an 'aggressor state,' despite international sports bodies allowing 'neutral' participation.
Several Latvian ski resorts, including Briežkalns, Gaiziņkalns, Žagarkalns, and Reina Trase, have commenced their operations for the Christmas holidays. This opening comes amidst unseasonably warm December temperatures, with resorts relying on extensive snow production to offer winter recreation.
Latvia's national broadcaster, LTV, has announced the 24 artists and their songs set to compete in 'Supernova 2026', the national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026. The competition will feature two semi-finals on January 31 and February 7, leading to the Grand Final on February 14, 2026, where Latvia's representative for Vienna will be chosen.
Latvijas Banka has updated its macroeconomic forecasts, projecting Latvia's Gross Domestic Product to grow by 1.7% in 2025, an upward revision from previous estimates. The central bank also raised its inflation forecast for 2025 to 3.9%, citing stronger wage increases and tariff adjustments as key factors. These new projections were prepared in December 2025.
Latvia has contributed €200,000 to the Ukraine Energy Support Fund, announced on December 17, 2025, to aid in restoring Ukraine's power grid severely damaged by ongoing Russian attacks. This support is crucial for maintaining energy resilience as winter approaches.
Latvia has contributed €200,000 to the Ukraine Energy Support Fund to aid in the restoration of Ukraine's power grid, which has been severely damaged by ongoing Russian attacks. The donation, announced by Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže, underscores international efforts to bolster Ukraine's energy resilience ahead of winter.
Flydubai has inaugurated a new direct air route between Riga International Airport (RIX) and Dubai International Airport (DXB), operating three times a week. Launched on December 13, 2025, this service aims to significantly boost tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between Latvia and the United Arab Emirates, enhancing connectivity to the Baltic region.
