Latvian armed forces chief: Russia targets Ukraine’s political will

The commander of the Latvian National Armed Forces, Kaspars Pudans, has said that Russia’s military strategy in Ukraine is no longer centered on achieving significant battlefield breakthroughs, arguing that the balance of power along the front lines remains largely unchanged.

According to Pudans, Moscow is instead attempting to erode the political resolve and public motivation behind Ukraine’s resistance. He said Russia’s efforts appear focused on weakening support for the Ukrainian Armed Forces rather than securing decisive territorial gains, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media. 

Pudans noted that Ukraine continues to resist effectively on the battlefield, tying down substantial Russian forces. This, he explained, prevents Moscow from accumulating additional personnel and material resources that could be used elsewhere.

He added that Ukraine’s resistance has provided countries like Latvia with critical time to strengthen their own defenses. Pudans stressed that this period must be used wisely to reinforce national defense capabilities and warned that preparations should not slow even if a truce is eventually reached in Ukraine.

The Latvian commander also cautioned that Russia could seek to pursue revanchist ambitions against its neighbouring states, including Latvia, in the future. However, he suggested that such actions might not necessarily take the form of direct military aggression, but could instead manifest through information campaigns, cyber operations, or economic pressure.

Pudans emphasised that sustained and robust Western support for Ukraine remains essential. While acknowledging the innovation and tactical adaptability demonstrated by Ukrainian forces, he argued that tactical successes alone are insufficient and that operational and strategic advantages must also be secured to ensure long-term stability.

By Sabina Mammadli