The Latvian government moves forward with a plan for foreign military volunteers/article

On Tuesday, April 23, the Cabinet of Ministers approved changes to the Military Service Law, which provides for the possibility of admitting foreigners to the national armed forces in the event of an exceptional mobilization or if martial law is imposed in the country proclaimed. In addition, a number of other relevant changes to the law are planned.

“Latvia is preparing for various military threat scenarios and learning from Ukraine’s experiences. The aim of this initiative is to organize the regulatory basis in such a way that, in the event of a state of emergency or martial law, Latvia can immediately employ volunteer foreigners in the country. In addition to the NATO forces already with us, this initiative would strengthen our defense combat capabilities and provide a broader opportunity for motivated citizens of other countries to fight for our country,” said Defense Minister Andris Spruds.

Foreign citizens who wish to serve in the national armed forces in an emergency will be required to legally reside on the territory of Latvia and know the national language or at least one of the official languages ​​of NATO at an appropriate level. The changes include a list of countries whose citizens can serve in the NBS.

In the event of general or partial mobilization, citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) or the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), as well as citizens of Australia, Brazil, New Zealand or Ukraine will be able to voluntarily apply for military service in the National Armed Forces.

In the future, the Ministry of Defense will determine the precise conditions of the contracts offered to these volunteers. To become law, the changes will have to go through the usual channels of the Saeima debate and parliamentary votes, so they are still far from becoming reality.

As has been extensively reported by the international media, hundreds of foreign volunteers in Ukraine have fought with distinction in the International Legion to help that country defend itself against Russian aggression.

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