Latvia News
News
NATO Deploys Additional Troops to Latvia Amid Rising Tensions
Following increased Russian military activity near the Baltic border, NATO has stationed 1,500 additional troops at the Ādaži Military Base, including German and Canadian forces. PM Evika Siliņa reaffirmed Latvia’s commitment to regional security.
Riga’s Historic Center Named European Capital of Culture 2025
The city launched a year-long celebration with 300+ cultural events, including light installations at the Freedom Monument and a digital art festival in the Latvian National Library.
Business News
Latvia’s Tech Sector Attracts €200M in Foreign Investment
Riga-based startups, including Printful and MikroTik, secured major funding rounds, positioning Latvia as the fastest-growing tech hub in the Baltics.
AirBaltic Orders 20 New Airbus A220s
The national carrier announced a €1.4 billion expansion, aiming to double its fleet by 2028 and add direct flights to Tokyo and Boston.
Economic News
Inflation Drops to 4.5%, Lowest Since 2021
Stabilizing energy prices and reduced supply chain disruptions have eased inflation, though food costs remain 12% higher than pre-pandemic levels.
Latvia Exits EU Excessive Deficit Procedure
The European Commission confirmed Latvia’s budget deficit is now below 3% of GDP, unlocking access to €500M in cohesion funds.
Political News
Coalition Government Splits Over Tax Reform
The New Unity (JV) and National Alliance (NA) parties clashed over proposed flat tax reforms, threatening the stability of Siliņa’s government.
Latvia Expels Russian Diplomat Over Cyber Espionage
A GRU operative was declared persona non grata after being linked to attacks on Latvia’s energy and financial infrastructure.
Election News
2026 Parliamentary Elections: Opposition Gains in Polls
Recent surveys show:
Online Voting Surpasses 50% in Local By-Elections
For the first time, digital ballots outnumbered in-person votes in Daugavpils and Liepāja.
Employment News
IT Sector Faces 10,000-Worker Shortage
Despite 5.8% unemployment, Latvia lacks software developers and cybersecurity experts. A new fast-track visa program for Indian and Ukrainian tech talent begins July 1.
Construction Wages Jump 15% Amid Labor Crunch
Skilled tradespeople now earn €2,200/month as demand for Baltic housing projects booms.
Business News
Nasdaq Riga Index Hits All-Time High
The OMXRGI surged 6%, led by:
Swedbank Latvia Launches Green Bonds
The €100M initiative will fund renewable energy projects, including wind farms in Kurzeme.
Forecast
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Riga: Sunny, 22°C (72°F)
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Daugavpils: Showers, 20°C (68°F)
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Ventspils: Windy, 18°C (64°F)
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Jūrmala: Cloudy, 21°C (70°F)
Entertainment News
Brainstorm Announces Final Tour with Riga Arena Show
Latvia’s legendary band will perform their farewell concert on August 24, featuring a 50-piece orchestra.
Riga International Film Festival Announces Lineup
The "RIGA IFF" (Oct 15-25) will premiere "The Baltic Spy", a Cold War thriller shot in Liepāja.
Upcoming Events (june 20-30, 2025)
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June 26: Līgo & Jāņi Eve (Bonfires nationwide)
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June 28: Riga Opera Festival (Latvian National Opera)
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June 20: Latvia vs. Poland (Euro 2026 qualifier, Daugava Stadium)
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June 21: Midsummer Celebrations (Countryside traditions)
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June 22: Baltic Pride Parade (Riga city center)
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June 24: White Night (All-night art festival)
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June 26: Saulkrasti Jazz Festival (Seaside concerts)
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June 27: Latvian Beer Fest (Vērmanes Garden)
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June 28: Strongman Games (Sigulda Castle)
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June 30: Startup Pitch Battle (TechHub Riga)
Key Trend: Latvia strengthens its NATO and tech-driven economy while navigating political fractures and labor shortages.
Currency: 1 EUR ≈ 0.99 USD. Forecast data from LVGMC.
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