Ukraine Signs Drone Deal with Latvia at Nordic-Baltic Summit

Ukraine signed a drone production agreement with Latvia during a Nordic-Baltic summit in Tallinn. The deal follows initial talks between Ukrainian officials and Latvia's Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs. Ukrainian officials said the agreement will expand joint defense manufacturing and allow Ukraine to share its experience with European partners.

The announcement occurred amid recent drone incidents in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.

Ukrainian officials described a diplomatic approach aimed at convincing Russia that continued fighting offers no benefits. They cited monthly Russian casualties exceeding 30,000 and Ukrainian long-range strikes on Russian logistics and oil facilities.

The same officials noted fuel shortages and communication disruptions in Crimea and parts of Russia. They stated that these conditions, combined with pressure on the Russian budget, could push Moscow toward negotiations.

Estonia's president said using fighter jets to intercept drones is costly and expressed interest in Ukrainian technology for cheaper alternatives. Ukrainian officials offered to provide low-cost interceptor drones and training teams based on their experience in the Middle East.

The summit takes place as Ukraine seeks European involvement in future talks with Russia. A G7 meeting in France and an EU summit in Brussels are scheduled in the coming weeks. Ukrainian officials said the United States remains engaged in diplomatic efforts despite its recent focus on the Middle East.

A Kremlin spokesperson stated that the U.S.-led mediation process is currently on hold and rejected a role for European representatives as mediators.