A well-equipped army should remain the core of Latvia’s defence, but partially mandatory military service may serve as a possible addition, said Latvian Prime Minister Krišjānis Kariņš in an interview to TV3 programme 900 seconds.
This was his response to the question if there is room for a discussion of mandatory military service in the country. The PM said it is worth discussing, and the Ministry of Defence and National Armed Forces have already started on that.
«It is clear professional military service should remain the core – well-trained, highly effective and battle-ready troops. But the more of our residents we can train and the more youth we can involve, the better,» comments the head of the government.
Partially mandatory military service could serve as a way to involve residents and youngsters in efforts to enhance the country’s defence. Forming reserves of troops and national guards could have «a shadow of obligation». Teaching school youth how to act in a wartime or crisis situation would be useful as well, said the PM.
«We need to maintain the quality and professionalism [in defence], while also increasing numbers,» said Kariņš, adding that this could be done using different solutions.
Latvian PM offers his opinion on mandatory military services
