As a Finn I can understand Rinkēvičs' historical notions well. He sounds like a sensible politician representing a modern Baltic state wanting to evade the risk of Russian aggression. I think his message to those "german intellectuals" was dead-on as well.
@@drakelang8342 & the bulk of the ultraconservative political class/players here (USa) as well. Some of them are even definable as subversive (as in actual treacherous behavior even if partly unknowingly done), at this point in time, with the risks present now.
Great inverview. I wish so much of it wasn't cut out. It feels like a 1hr interview, cut down to 15min. He's a very sharp and wise man. There's a lot to learn from somebody with so much experience. It's really a shame to miss out on so much because of editing.
More precisely, people who are old enough to remember those times, not all of us. Younger generation including me who has been born right after collapse of USSR can't really compare it with nowadays. And in all honesty these nostalgic talks from parents and the elderly of how grass was greener in soviet union at the very least seem weird or just makes people mad to hear it over and over. Regardless of how good or bad it was you gotta change the track from time to time and you definitely don't want to make the same music all the time, it's boring.
@@squeakycleannnnAll older people remember the past fondly, because we were young, healthier, & looking forward to a future. As we age, we our future fades & all we have is the past. It's why every generation everywhere has some tendency to glorify the past.
Hearing the POV of a border nation to Russia that has experienced Soviet occupation was rather informative, probably should also serve as a warning. They are like the canaries in a coal mine.
I concur 💯% in what he said the security of Europe and the world will change if Ukraine loses this war. And if you don’t stop the aggressor, the aggression will continue.
I have nothing but the outmost respect for the Baltic states. Scandinavia for sure stands by you all. In the 90s Denmark fought very hard to get our friends into the EU as fast as possible and we will forever have your back. We got more than 2500 soldiers there now with 30 leopard 2A7 and majority our F16's.
As a German and as a gender neutral being, i thank great United States for blowing up our Nord Stream pipelines. Since we lost our manliness after WW2, we always had this fantasy to be spanked by uncle Sam on a daily basis.
@@mynjeri5469ou have now denigrated yourself to a being as opposed to a human😊 what’s next on the agenda of the woke, legalised child abuse or zoophilia for all? I’m sure I saw a video of some American whom claimed he identified as a cat, we are doomed, the Chinese are watching us in bewilderment, just waiting for us to destroy ourselves. Once such a proud and ingenious civilisation, destroyed in just 70yrs.
Your support is very much appreciated. Scandinavia, the Nordics, the Baltics should stand together for the sake of our own common good - security, peace and prosperity!
Latvia won't give up as long as Ukraine isn't. Cope and seethe, vatņiks. :) Btw, the glorifying obelisk in our capital crashing down was glorious. Finally put down to rest.
He’s not a prime minister. He’s foreign minister… our prime minister is American guy ( holds American passport) and just killing our nation in all possible ways… nobody like that Karins 😝
@@nevash6537 there were never 3 million people. Second: russia murdered and deported the local latvian population. Most of the people leaving are Russians that were sent there to replace the Latvian population.
As a German and as a gender neutral being, i thank great United States for blowing up our Nord Stream pipelines. Since we lost our manliness after WW2, we always had this fantasy to be spanked by uncle Sam on a daily basis.
The correct answer for the Latvians Fm is this, Latvia wants to be a singular sovereign country and the Russian speakers who believe that Latvia should be conquered by Russia are not Latvians, they're Russians who want their country Russia to be invading neighboring nations that they live in without consequences. That's a hard no from every other person who doesn't want that to happen, the Ukrainians are embodying the hard No and others have to emulate that level of national cohesion and resolve to resist imperialist ideology.
@@dienar3717 Personally, I can't say I've ever come across an English-speaking person living in a former colony who openly advocated having the UK reconquer their lost territories. Meanwhile Russian nationalists are a problem―the Kremlin has used them as an excuse for military intervention time and time again, first in Moldova, then Georgia, Crimea, the Donbas and now the entirety of Ukraine. And before that it took Eastern Finland, Kaliningrad and the Kuril Islands―all of which are now underdeveloped compared to the countries they were taken from. Russia is basically a tumor that only exists to grow bigger, for no purpose, without ever developing into anything functional.
@@VVayVVard Do you forgot the white Europeans are the cancer to the world? since colonialism times. the USA is built upon robbed lands, same with Australia and New Zealand. To the lesser extend the Malvinas taken by the British. The white people are still having the same mentality to enslave economically the rest of the world.
@@dienar3717 haha, you make a real silly comparison. The situation is now and here and has to do was war and dictatorship.....is that English? It seems the situation to you is abracadabra.
Edgars Rinkēvičs is very smart and objective. Everything he said is objectively correct and true! He answers all questions calmly and clearly. Wish more European leaders/politicians follows him.
Former occupied countries by soviets should well remember way of life back then. Its horrific ! Eastern Germany, Hungary, Czech republic, Baltic states . Never again We will fight 💪
Great minister from a great country. Smart man thinking realistically. We have those a lot in Europe. Latvia is a member of both the EU and NATO. So, they're as safe as you can be, living next to the Russian Federation.
It’s not a coincidence that *NONE* of the former Warsaw Pact countries support Russia and all of them support Ukraine. Russians killed so many people during the occupation - entire families would just disappear during the night never to be seen/heard from again
Western Europeans: we don't get it, Putin must've gone mad, nobody could have foreseen this horrible war Eastern Europeans: we knew this was gonna happen and we warned you multiple times
Well mannered, diplomatic, not aqqusatory but acknowledging the underlying issues while also not throwing anyone under the bus. Very much respect for this man
The Latvian FM is very well balanced in his analysis and comments. It shows Latvians can think for themselves and are their own country and are not Russia, they are peaceful Europeans.
I think the foreign minister has a good point regarding optics, if tou look at the raw numbers, Germany has provided a lot of help to Ukraine, both humanitarian and military But the WAY they do it always look indecisive and reluctant, when the UK and the US were donating anti-tank missiles, germany was donating helmets When germany donated gepards, they did so late and with lots of bureocracy regarding ammo And heres the thing, those helmets saved lives, the Gepard turned out to be surprisingly effective when russia started to deploy kamikaze drones, not to mention other deliveries like the PzH2000, which is a world class artillery piece, unmatched by anything the russians have, so the help WAS useful Politics is often both about actions AND words, Germany is considered the one of the leaders of Europe, if not THE leader, i think other countries expected them to act like it, in a decisive manner
Reluctance to alienate Russia and future cheap Gas deals Reluctance to take responsibility as the economic powerhouse of Europe and spend their share. Other less rich countries have donated more per GDP to Ukraine than Germany.
@@hiddendragon415 If you believe that it's possible to alienate the largest country in terms of area, with the biggest natural resources and the second biggest arms export quantities, you simply don't see how diverse the world is and how many different national interests and histories, which hugely impact people's views on international affairs, there are.
@@nebesk So you suggest appeasement with a Despot who only respects strength. That simply doesn't work. You are failing to appreciate if Putin's Empire restoring adventure is not contained to Ukraine and more countries are attacked it dramatically increases the chance of WW3. Its exactly the same scenario as the 1939s Munich Peace in our time fallacy.
You seem to have forgotten that Germany sent tens of billions of €€€ to Russia over the years by purchasing cheap fossil fuel. Countries like Poland warned Germany that this money is funding the Russian military machine - Germany kept doing it. Now Germany is sending Leopard 1 tanks from the 1960’s to help? In small numbers too. In comparison, Poland donated hundreds of tanks when Ukrainians really needed them. Some of the Baltic states donated their entire military budget to help Ukraine. Let’s be honest in our comparisons.
I agree and this is my impression - too little, too late. Trying to play nice and Be Decent when a War Criminal evil strong arm is coming at you. Give Ukraine what they need and everything they need.
We did not necessarily live in the '90's . The main problem is that the views on Russia depended heavily on how far west you are.For a country like France, for example the relationship with Russia was completely different than for a country right near Russia's border. Western Europe did not really care about Russia so much, at least not until recently. The Ukrainian war was like a wake-up call.
I particularly enjoyed his deft dismantling of leftist German intellectuals arguments re negotiations and ending arms assistance to Ukraine. Put simply, directly and with perfect precision. Like an arrow hitting the bullseye.
@Hans Michael Reitz: If this Ukraine conflict continues longer, the West will demilitarize itself. As it is, UK is already demilitarized. Russia can just march to London with very little resistance. Ah, this would be a good time for Scotland and North Ireland to declare independence. The entire EU is running low in weapons. Russia can march to Berlin, Brussel, Paris to Lisbon in one week.
@Adriano Celentano agree, yet, people keep pooping on Germany while France and Italy do nothing. Both France and Italy deserve scrutiny. Just ask perun.
I think living in the Baltics right now is a frightening time. I am Latvian/American and with Belarus and Russia breathing down their necks, they need total assistance from Nato if they have any hopes to survive. I am in USA because of the Russian occupation in WWII. My parents were heartbroken to leave their Latvian homeland. I pray people don't lose sight of what it means if Russian take over Ukraine because I don't think they'll stop there.
In first 2 weeks when war started. I couldn't sleep. Cause i toguth that Ukraine will fall. But after 1 year war is still going on. I don't think Russia will want to test NATO waters. But then again, we can't be 100% sure that NATO countries will help us. (Baltics) And Russia probably thinks the same. Without NATO help, it would be over for us..
"democratic" ruzzia would also mean the same as now , or not ? +50% of ruzzians support attacking neighbors - democracy meaning power of people - ruzzians would still be attacking and trying to conquer anybody who can understand ruzzian language : please watch Dudajev interviews - you will understand what ruzzia is ruzzia needs to acknowledge that WWII started in 1939 , not 1941 as it is being taught to them , Baltic states did not join CCCP voluntarily + ruzzia must pay reparations to all 3 + Ukaine
@@elliekwong3180 either you are a ruzzian troll typing for euros or dollars (ask yourself why not rubles ?) or you have had no contact with ruzzian mindset ...
@@olenmees9150 USSR invaded Poland on 17th of september 1939 and committed Katyn Massacre of Polish officers in 1940. Russian history books it's a matrix world. Russians love taking all WWII USSR glory and always skip its history dark sides.
Once Ruzzia has lost this war as it definitely will, the time will have finally come to resettle all Russians in bordering states to the loving bosom of Mother Ruzzia. Königsberg will have to be divided between Poland and Lithuania. It could very well be the Chinese will reclaim territories it lost to Russia in Manchuria. Independence for the Caucasus and carving up Russia into several ethnic states is also an option. Many new states next to a Muskovy.
I have NO idea what he's talking about that "he wishes Russia was democratic", well! last I checked Russia these days is democratic and has had regular elections, the same cannot be said of Ukraine, not in the past and not even now---DO NOT get me wrong, I have alot of issues and concerns about Russia, but I cannot absolve the UNSC3/EU/Nato from been at the root cause of this conflict/war in Ukraine. This is ALL about Nato trying to subdue and evangelize Russia into "democratic" submission through creation of a wedge in Uraine against the kremlin ---- but ultimately, with the kremlin bogged-down in Ukraine, Nato's target of choice (TOC) still remains the juggernaut that is China....
@@D-E-S_8559 yea, Russia is so democratic that anyone who can pose a challenge to Putin is put in to jail - then they have elections. Russia is democratic like North Korea - they even called themselves Democratic Republic of N Korea 😂 🤡
I have NO idea what he's talking about that "he wishes Russia was democratic", well! last I checked Russia these days is democratic and has had regular elections, the same cannot be said of Ukraine, not in the past and not even now---DO NOT get me wrong, I have alot of issues and concerns about Russia, but I cannot absolve the UNSC3/EU/Nato from been at the root cause of this conflict/war in Ukraine. This is ALL about Nato trying to subdue and evangelize Russia into "democratic" submission through creation of a wedge in Uraine against the kremlin ---- but ultimately, with the kremlin bogged-down in Ukraine, Nato's target of choice (TOC) still remains the juggernaut that is China....
The correspondent Juri has some strong ''good russian'' vibes. At least DW didn't send Marina Ovsyannikova the obvious russian influence agent (allegedly).
Honestly and we wonder why Imperium Russia thought occupation of its neighbors was wise build a buffer between you and Germany it's not rocket science Back in 1500 Poland was a very large commonwealth was controlled most of Ukraine and the Baltic countries unfortunately both Russia and Sweden was uncomfortable with that fact
They have warned us for a decade. We did not listen. I hope we can change our attitude towards the Baltic nations and Finland. In my personal opinion they belong much more to the EU than the UK or Hungary.
I'm Latvian, i speak freely russian since I was 6 ! in reality we Latvians should go to russia to work there instead of going to any other EU country, but the sad reality is that regime that took control of russia, made russia so poor that my knowledge of russian language is useless... I cannot imagine if russia would be democratic from 2000, how rich it could be ! in fact it doesn't matter if it's democratic or not, it depends on people who rules the country ! I really wish that russia could have some leaders who cares business instead of war... I hope that one day russia will have leaders who will make russia rich for once ! And their mentality of war will dismiss for ever... 🤞
Russia is a barbarian country stuck in the middle ages. It will never be democratic. It is too corrupt. If you don’t like Europe then go across the border - I guarantee that Russians will put you to work the first day - on the front line
@Zurkulens: Putin works for his people. He has strengthened Russia's economy, military defense, and finance. Perhaps, you should broaden your horizon. Why don't you go to America and see what is really like in US cities, like Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York City, Houston, Chicago, etc. You will a lot of homeless people lining the streets. You will a lot of drug addicts everywhere. You will see gun violence. You will see US infrastructure crumbling. As they said, the pasture is always greener on the other side. Putin, the Great will go down in history as one of the greatest leader in Russia. He is brilliant, strategic genius and a reliable ally. After this Ukraine war, Russia will rebuild Donbass region quickly with the help of Russian people. Chinese investors will pour into the region. A matter of fact, China has already invested a lot of businesses in Russia, like auto industry, communication technologies, etc. They will launch a joint venture in space exploration. Better life will come. . . just be patient!
@@tw0million : It's certainly better than 10 years ago. BTW, Moscow is ranked the best place to live. Rubles are stronger than a year ago. Their inflation is going down. They are not out of food. Oh, soon, they don't need running water for toilet. China is piloting waterless toilets.
Yes, the warmongering organisation called NATO invasions of Yogoslavia . Who would have thought that the same warmongering organisation has strikes back many more countries since then ?
@2:27 "The biggest mistake - that I would name - was dependency on Russian energy" - yet Latvia was buying most of it's natural gas from Russia even in 2022 far cheaper than Latvia could buy from alternative sources. Being independent from Russia is nice, but if you can't afford more expensive LNG from USA or Norway then that is a mistake too, maybe even bigger mistake. But from which Latvia will suffer in 5 or 10 years paying much higher gas prices.
Given Germany's pacifist attitudes, I would not be surprised if Germany declared neutrality and joined in that with Austria and Switzerland, leaving European defense against Russia to others.
@@charlesburgoyne-probyn6044 Germany has by far the lowest %of GDP spend on defense of any NATO member and last year spent just above 1%, where the Nato minimum is 2% of GDP. Basically, Germany expects others to defend it and its defense spend and hesitancy in getting involved in "hard power" reflects that.
@@michaelmazowiecki9195 indeed peace dividend, guilt tripping, looking after newcomers etc we will have to move on mentally from the WW2 era whatever happens Germany supplied weapons to Slovenia and Croatia to enable their secession by force of arms and recognised them the moment they declared independence, took part in the nato attack on Belgrade on the 58th anniversary their own in 1941, perhaps it correctly knew there would be no risk to themselves at all in this conflict but isn't so sure about Russia hence its hesitation
@@charlesburgoyne-probyn6044 other than Russia, no-one was happy with the behavior of Milosevic Serbia which was pretty much like Putin's Russia : empire building at the cost of its neighbors. The minor ex-republics of ex-yugoslavia all requested assistance against a rapacious Serbia which largely controlled the Yugoslav army. Nato got sucked in only in Kosovo which had been invaded by Serbia.
To prevent WWIII, the best way is to stop putin in Ukraine. Compromise of Chamberlain accelerated WWII instead. EU countries should have learn lessons from history.
As a German and as a gender neutral being, i thank great United States for blowing up our Nord Stream pipelines. Since we lost our manliness after WW2, we always had this fantasy to be spanked by uncle Sam on a daily basis.
It also attacked Chechnia, Georgia, killed millions, one of the most murderous countries in the world. Would be good if it changed presidents every 10 years or less
Baltic Partners should voice their Position more towards German/Central European Countries. Germany discusses again and again crazy populist topics like "diplomatic negotiations to end war".
Mentality is. Marching the streets in soviet uniforms, dressing kids in military uniform, placing monuments of tyrant as Stalin and having Communist party till today! Are you kidding me? Plus desire to rebuild Soviet union by wet fantasy of one failed kgb nut
As a Finn I can understand Rinkēvičs' historical notions well. He sounds like a sensible politician representing a modern Baltic state wanting to evade the risk of Russian aggression. I think his message to those "german intellectuals" was dead-on as well.
ALSO put in north american intellectuals chomsky, messerschmidt, jordan petersen etc...
@@drakelang8342 & the bulk of the ultraconservative political class/players here (USa) as well. Some of them are even definable as subversive (as in actual treacherous behavior even if partly unknowingly done), at this point in time, with the risks present now.
Well said. A great leader. Latvia is fortunate to have him. He has the right perspective and a pulse on the now.
Finnish & Estonian leaders are great also - IMHO
Great inverview.
I wish so much of it wasn't cut out. It feels like a 1hr interview, cut down to 15min.
He's a very sharp and wise man. There's a lot to learn from somebody with so much experience.
It's really a shame to miss out on so much because of editing.
I like this Latvia leader. Totally support his perspective. From Denmark.
That really is a great way to put it. "Somehow, we all lived in the 1990s for too long."
More precisely, people who are old enough to remember those times, not all of us. Younger generation including me who has been born right after collapse of USSR can't really compare it with nowadays. And in all honesty these nostalgic talks from parents and the elderly of how grass was greener in soviet union at the very least seem weird or just makes people mad to hear it over and over.
Regardless of how good or bad it was you gotta change the track from time to time and you definitely don't want to make the same music all the time, it's boring.
@@squeakycleannnnAll older people remember the past fondly, because we were young, healthier, & looking forward to a future. As we age, we our future fades & all we have is the past. It's why every generation everywhere has some tendency to glorify the past.
I absolutely love this guy. Latvia cannot afford false, feel-good conceits.
Very nice speech. Have heard a lot of very good ones from Baltic poltiticians in the recent months.
well spoken, well said
Hearing the POV of a border nation to Russia that has experienced Soviet occupation was rather informative, probably should also serve as a warning. They are like the canaries in a coal mine.
But all we have to do is look at what Putin has said - he wants to return to "soviet union".
They have been warning for years and nobody listened. They heard "you are oversensitive and rusophobic". I's called own experience.
We are phoenixes and we will blow a coal mine and Russia with it, if they will push us!
Such a great interview!
I concur 💯% in what he said the security of Europe and the world will change if Ukraine loses this war. And if you don’t stop the aggressor, the aggression will continue.
I have nothing but the outmost respect for the Baltic states. Scandinavia for sure stands by you all. In the 90s Denmark fought very hard to get our friends into the EU as fast as possible and we will forever have your back. We got more than 2500 soldiers there now with 30 leopard 2A7 and majority our F16's.
As a German and as a gender neutral being, i thank great United States for blowing up our Nord Stream pipelines. Since we lost our manliness after WW2, we always had this fantasy to be spanked by uncle Sam on a daily basis.
@@mynjeri5469 i dont think one journalists word is enough of a proof to take it as a fact that US blew up NS
@@mynjeri5469ou have now denigrated yourself to a being as opposed to a human😊 what’s next on the agenda of the woke, legalised child abuse or zoophilia for all? I’m sure I saw a video of some American whom claimed he identified as a cat, we are doomed, the Chinese are watching us in bewilderment, just waiting for us to destroy ourselves. Once such a proud and ingenious civilisation, destroyed in just 70yrs.
Your support is very much appreciated. Scandinavia, the Nordics, the Baltics should stand together for the sake of our own common good - security, peace and prosperity!
@@mynjeri5469 Has it been established that the US blew up Nord Stream?
Latvia won't give up as long as Ukraine isn't. Cope and seethe, vatņiks. :) Btw, the glorifying obelisk in our capital crashing down was glorious. Finally put down to rest.
An intelligent and thoughtful leader
This guy is very perceptive and eloquent! And he kinda sounds like Snape. Win-win. I wish every foreign minister is like him.
What a great and wise prime minister! Latvia can be proud of such a leader!
Says who? Biden: good doggie, good doggie. Have a snack and give a voice.🤣🤣🤣🤣
He’s not a prime minister. He’s foreign minister… our prime minister is American guy ( holds American passport) and just killing our nation in all possible ways… nobody like that Karins 😝
@@KazimierzSurma what in the world are you talking about? are you into fuzzies? 🤷♂️
@@tw0million Didn't you know that Baltics are American puppets or lapdogs? It is funny. The countries unable to do anything are so belligerent. 🤣🤣🤣
very well said. good for you Mr Minister!!!
@@nevash6537 there were never 3 million people. Second: russia murdered and deported the local latvian population. Most of the people leaving are Russians that were sent there to replace the Latvian population.
As a German and as a gender neutral being, i thank great United States for blowing up our Nord Stream pipelines. Since we lost our manliness after WW2, we always had this fantasy to be spanked by uncle Sam on a daily basis.
Lol...r u drunk
The correct answer for the Latvians Fm is this, Latvia wants to be a singular sovereign country and the Russian speakers who believe that Latvia should be conquered by Russia are not Latvians, they're Russians who want their country Russia to be invading neighboring nations that they live in without consequences. That's a hard no from every other person who doesn't want that to happen, the Ukrainians are embodying the hard No and others have to emulate that level of national cohesion and resolve to resist imperialist ideology.
Is this true for all English speaking people aligned to the British monarchy or American corporate colonialism?
@@dienar3717 Personally, I can't say I've ever come across an English-speaking person living in a former colony who openly advocated having the UK reconquer their lost territories. Meanwhile Russian nationalists are a problem―the Kremlin has used them as an excuse for military intervention time and time again, first in Moldova, then Georgia, Crimea, the Donbas and now the entirety of Ukraine. And before that it took Eastern Finland, Kaliningrad and the Kuril Islands―all of which are now underdeveloped compared to the countries they were taken from. Russia is basically a tumor that only exists to grow bigger, for no purpose, without ever developing into anything functional.
@@VVayVVard Do you forgot the white Europeans are the cancer to the world? since colonialism times. the USA is built upon robbed lands, same with Australia and New Zealand. To the lesser extend the Malvinas taken by the British. The white people are still having the same mentality to enslave economically the rest of the world.
The Hong kongers are begging Britain to re-occupy them and save them from China imperialism.
@@dienar3717 haha, you make a real silly comparison. The situation is now and here and has to do was war and dictatorship.....is that English? It seems the situation to you is abracadabra.
Edgars Rinkēvičs is very smart and objective. Everything he said is objectively correct and true! He answers all questions calmly and clearly. Wish more European leaders/politicians follows him.
Former occupied countries by soviets should well remember way of life back then. Its horrific ! Eastern Germany, Hungary, Czech republic, Baltic states . Never again
We will fight 💪
And they do. That is one of the main subjects why Nato stepped up
Great minister from a great country. Smart man thinking realistically. We have those a lot in Europe. Latvia is a member of both the EU and NATO. So, they're as safe as you can be, living next to the Russian Federation.
A great prime minister. He nailed it when he equated with the idea of 'negotiations' with the petition for Ukraine's surrender. Exactly.
Foreign Minister
I really like this gentleman, every sentence is well thought out and no beating around the bush. Factual. Calm, collected.
He is right...we have been going around like it's the 90s for too long.
I’m an ignorant, just recently learned how much hardship was imposed by Russians on Poland even before Mr H entered the WW2 stage!
It’s not a coincidence that *NONE* of the former Warsaw Pact countries support Russia and all of them support Ukraine. Russians killed so many people during the occupation - entire families would just disappear during the night never to be seen/heard from again
Hungary is really a shame for the EU!
I can agree Nordic and Baltic States have great leaders.
Greetings from Latvija, proud to have such Foreign Minister.
My wife and daughter are Latvian. Love your country man! Lived in riga for two years and sigulda for one
Much respect to the Latvian Leader and their wonderful people who never forgot the past!
Foreign Minister, not leader.
@@ryankwan1934now leader
Latvia is a strong country...👍🏻👍🏻
Don't worry, the hold on Latvia is strong.
Thank the Lord for Latvia and its perspective on the situation. All western leaders hesitating or siting on the fence should be watching this video.
Western Europeans: we don't get it, Putin must've gone mad, nobody could have foreseen this horrible war
Eastern Europeans: we knew this was gonna happen and we warned you multiple times
Well mannered, diplomatic, not aqqusatory but acknowledging the underlying issues while also not throwing anyone under the bus. Very much respect for this man
I learned a lot about Russia Russia from my old work pal Liva. Boy, did she hate Russia. I hope you are doing ok out there Liva.
The Latvian FM is very well balanced in his analysis and comments. It shows Latvians can think for themselves and are their own country and are not Russia, they are peaceful Europeans.
I like listening to him. He is a very good leader.
I think the foreign minister has a good point regarding optics, if tou look at the raw numbers, Germany has provided a lot of help to Ukraine, both humanitarian and military
But the WAY they do it always look indecisive and reluctant, when the UK and the US were donating anti-tank missiles, germany was donating helmets
When germany donated gepards, they did so late and with lots of bureocracy regarding ammo
And heres the thing, those helmets saved lives, the Gepard turned out to be surprisingly effective when russia started to deploy kamikaze drones, not to mention other deliveries like the PzH2000, which is a world class artillery piece, unmatched by anything the russians have, so the help WAS useful
Politics is often both about actions AND words, Germany is considered the one of the leaders of Europe, if not THE leader, i think other countries expected them to act like it, in a decisive manner
Reluctance to alienate Russia and future cheap Gas deals Reluctance to take responsibility as the economic powerhouse of Europe and spend their share. Other less rich countries have donated more per GDP to Ukraine than Germany.
@@hiddendragon415 If you believe that it's possible to alienate the largest country in terms of area, with the biggest natural resources and the second biggest arms export quantities, you simply don't see how diverse the world is and how many different national interests and histories, which hugely impact people's views on international affairs, there are.
@@nebesk So you suggest appeasement with a Despot who only respects strength. That simply doesn't work. You are failing to appreciate if Putin's Empire restoring adventure is not contained to Ukraine and more countries are attacked it dramatically increases the chance of WW3. Its exactly the same scenario as the 1939s Munich Peace in our time fallacy.
You seem to have forgotten that Germany sent tens of billions of €€€ to Russia over the years by purchasing cheap fossil fuel. Countries like Poland warned Germany that this money is funding the Russian military machine - Germany kept doing it. Now Germany is sending Leopard 1 tanks from the 1960’s to help? In small numbers too. In comparison, Poland donated hundreds of tanks when Ukrainians really needed them. Some of the Baltic states donated their entire military budget to help Ukraine. Let’s be honest in our comparisons.
Latvia is a beautiful country but the Soviet past is very obvious when you visit. Excellent political interview, seems like a very enlightened leader.
I agree and this is my impression - too little, too late. Trying to play nice and Be Decent when a War Criminal evil strong arm is coming at you. Give Ukraine what they need and everything they need.
Colour me impressed by the nuanced and intelligence of this FM.
*Russia🇷🇺 still occupied oblast Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhia, Kherson, Crimea.*
Russia must end occupation & peace!!!
We did not necessarily live in the '90's . The main problem is that the views on Russia depended heavily on how far west you are.For a country like France, for example the relationship with Russia was completely different than for a country right near Russia's border.
Western Europe did not really care about Russia so much, at least not until recently. The Ukrainian war was like a wake-up call.
🙏🕊🌻🔱 Very Interesting Viewpoint! Ukraine is Strong! Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the Heroes! The World Stays Committed! 🔱🌻🕊🙏
I particularly enjoyed his deft dismantling of leftist German intellectuals arguments re negotiations and ending arms assistance to Ukraine. Put simply, directly and with perfect precision. Like an arrow hitting the bullseye.
Europe - if we do not help UKRAINE today then WE WILL NEED HELP TOMORROW ourselves ‼
@Hans Michael Reitz: If this Ukraine conflict continues longer, the West will demilitarize itself. As it is, UK is already demilitarized. Russia can just march to London with very little resistance. Ah, this would be a good time for Scotland and North Ireland to declare independence. The entire EU is running low in weapons. Russia can march to Berlin, Brussel, Paris to Lisbon in one week.
@@elliekwong3180 we shall see......
Freedom for Ukraine! 🌻
2:10 he’s said that as the issues is better then anyone, we made a mistake in how we handled Russia’s government all these years.
I just noticed Russia comes forward with information with a bad agenda attached and it's another reason why things go rough.
It's a Shame that western Europeans have totally forgotten world war 2 new generation they stopped teaching them history .
Spoken with no filters. I love it.
No Latvian speaks with filters! Especially not about tyrants.
Germany is actually doing pretty well. Including EU commitments Germany is the second largest finical supporter of Ukraine
Yet in GDP contribution to Ukraine Germany ranks 14th. You comment is meaningless.
@Adriano Celentano agree, yet, people keep pooping on Germany while France and Italy do nothing. Both France and Italy deserve scrutiny. Just ask perun.
Germany has the lowest % of GDP spend on defense of any NATO country. The current Bundeswehr has admitted it is in no state to defend its country.
Germany is an obedient vassal because we occupy them with our troops. They need to understand who is boss.
@@SonyJimable lol 😆, what even 😂
Quite the diplomat
Truly, not many would take so good to getting some of those questions ..from a ''good'' russian.
12:28 Spot on! No bright future ahead ...
Gotta admit, latvians have longed for someone in government who can talk adequately in english.
I think living in the Baltics right now is a frightening time. I am Latvian/American and with Belarus and Russia breathing down their necks, they need total assistance from Nato if they have any hopes to survive. I am in USA because of the Russian occupation in WWII. My parents were heartbroken to leave their Latvian homeland. I pray people don't lose sight of what it means if Russian take over Ukraine because I don't think they'll stop there.
In first 2 weeks when war started. I couldn't sleep. Cause i toguth that Ukraine will fall. But after 1 year war is still going on. I don't think Russia will want to test NATO waters. But then again, we can't be 100% sure that NATO countries will help us. (Baltics) And Russia probably thinks the same. Without NATO help, it would be over for us..
@@lauris5275 Jebkas lai notiktu, mani vairāk pievelk Krievijas okupācija nevis Rietumu okupācija. Nāvi ES!
"democratic" ruzzia would also mean the same as now , or not ? +50% of ruzzians support attacking neighbors - democracy meaning power of people - ruzzians would still be attacking and trying to conquer
anybody who can understand ruzzian language : please watch Dudajev interviews - you will understand what ruzzia is
ruzzia needs to acknowledge that WWII started in 1939 , not 1941 as it is being taught to them , Baltic states did not join CCCP voluntarily + ruzzia must pay reparations to all 3 + Ukaine
@Olen Mees: You should read more and talk less.
@@elliekwong3180 either you are a ruzzian troll typing for euros or dollars (ask yourself why not rubles ?)
or you have had no contact with ruzzian mindset ...
@@olenmees9150 USSR invaded Poland on 17th of september 1939 and committed Katyn Massacre of Polish officers in 1940. Russian history books it's a matrix world. Russians love taking all WWII USSR glory and always skip its history dark sides.
Protect the Baltic states.
What country isn’t divided on most any issue? I’d be worried if there weren’t dissenting opinions
Once Ruzzia has lost this war as it definitely will, the time will have finally come to resettle all Russians in bordering states to the loving bosom of Mother Ruzzia.
Königsberg will have to be divided between Poland and Lithuania.
It could very well be the Chinese will reclaim territories it lost to Russia in Manchuria.
Independence for the Caucasus and carving up Russia into several ethnic states is also an option.
Many new states next to a Muskovy.
Give Koingsburg to the Czechs!
I have NO idea what he's talking about that "he wishes Russia was democratic", well! last I checked Russia these days is democratic and has had regular elections, the same cannot be said of Ukraine, not in the past and not even now---DO NOT get me wrong, I have alot of issues and concerns about Russia, but I cannot absolve the UNSC3/EU/Nato from been at the root cause of this conflict/war in Ukraine. This is ALL about Nato trying to subdue and evangelize Russia into "democratic" submission through creation of a wedge in Uraine against the kremlin ---- but ultimately, with the kremlin bogged-down in Ukraine, Nato's target of choice (TOC) still remains the juggernaut that is China....
@@D-E-S_8559 yea, Russia is so democratic that anyone who can pose a challenge to Putin is put in to jail - then they have elections. Russia is democratic like North Korea - they even called themselves Democratic Republic of N Korea 😂 🤡
thank you!
so much better than German talking heads who only talk about oil prices, Russian feelings, peace and inflation....
I have NO idea what he's talking about that "he wishes Russia was democratic", well! last I checked Russia these days is democratic and has had regular elections, the same cannot be said of Ukraine, not in the past and not even now---DO NOT get me wrong, I have alot of issues and concerns about Russia, but I cannot absolve the UNSC3/EU/Nato from been at the root cause of this conflict/war in Ukraine. This is ALL about Nato trying to subdue and evangelize Russia into "democratic" submission through creation of a wedge in Uraine against the kremlin ---- but ultimately, with the kremlin bogged-down in Ukraine, Nato's target of choice (TOC) still remains the juggernaut that is China....
Både Estland och Lettland verkar ha väldigt kompetenta utrikesministrar.
11:58 ^^Timely interruption^^
The correspondent Juri has some strong ''good russian'' vibes.
At least DW didn't send Marina Ovsyannikova the obvious russian influence agent (allegedly).
Yes, tanks rolled on the baltics in the 70s. They deserve and earned a break.
its a shame the entire baltics is like 6M people. not exactly a equal counterweight to russia/belarus
The 80s and 90s where magical in the U.S.
I would vote for him.
Overly optimistic, no doubt
Young people flee from Latvia to GB.
Honestly and we wonder why Imperium Russia thought occupation of its neighbors was wise build a buffer between you and Germany it's not rocket science
Back in 1500 Poland was a very large commonwealth was controlled most of Ukraine and the Baltic countries unfortunately both Russia and Sweden was uncomfortable with that fact
They have warned us for a decade. We did not listen.
I hope we can change our attitude towards the Baltic nations and Finland. In my personal opinion they belong much more to the EU than the UK or Hungary.
I'm Latvian, i speak freely russian since I was 6 ! in reality we Latvians should go to russia to work there instead of going to any other EU country, but the sad reality is that regime that took control of russia, made russia so poor that my knowledge of russian language is useless... I cannot imagine if russia would be democratic from 2000, how rich it could be ! in fact it doesn't matter if it's democratic or not, it depends on people who rules the country ! I really wish that russia could have some leaders who cares business instead of war... I hope that one day russia will have leaders who will make russia rich for once ! And their mentality of war will dismiss for ever... 🤞
Russia is a barbarian country stuck in the middle ages. It will never be democratic. It is too corrupt. If you don’t like Europe then go across the border - I guarantee that Russians will put you to work the first day - on the front line
@Zurkulens: Putin works for his people. He has strengthened Russia's economy, military defense, and finance. Perhaps, you should broaden your horizon. Why don't you go to America and see what is really like in US cities, like Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York City, Houston, Chicago, etc. You will a lot of homeless people lining the streets. You will a lot of drug addicts everywhere. You will see gun violence. You will see US infrastructure crumbling. As they said, the pasture is always greener on the other side.
Putin, the Great will go down in history as one of the greatest leader in Russia. He is brilliant, strategic genius and a reliable ally. After this Ukraine war, Russia will rebuild Donbass region quickly with the help of Russian people. Chinese investors will pour into the region. A matter of fact, China has already invested a lot of businesses in Russia, like auto industry, communication technologies, etc. They will launch a joint venture in space exploration. Better life will come. . . just be patient!
@@elliekwong3180 how on earth did Putin strengthen his economy when 40% of people in Russia don’t have indoor toilets?? go away you 🤡
@@tw0million : It's certainly better than 10 years ago. BTW, Moscow is ranked the best place to live. Rubles are stronger than a year ago. Their inflation is going down. They are not out of food. Oh, soon, they don't need running water for toilet. China is piloting waterless toilets.
@@elliekwong3180 Putin has lost his people's future. He should have stayed in one of his palaces but he simply loves annexing.
The west should have listened. They/We were too selfcentred and too proud. Now Ukraine fights our war.
More like "to cheap."
Intelligent discourse.
The 90’s were so good, I want to get back there so much !
Yes, as long as you weren't Georgian, chechnyan, dagastanian, Caucasian, Excetera.
Same :/
I agree, depending on where one lives.
Yes, the warmongering organisation called NATO invasions of Yogoslavia . Who would have thought that the same warmongering organisation has strikes back many more countries since then ?
@@First-Last_name : Yes, the 90's was not pleasant for Russia and its former satellites. USSR had a couple of incompetent leaders.
truth
same in all from midle to east europe
Latvia 100 year War. Everybody loves a good War.
smart
If we want future then we must let past be past.
You should e-mail Putin. Ask him to do just that.
Dam right.
Twenty years of being cheap and now every European politician is trying to rewrite history to make it seem noble.
Basically bring back Germany
American Imperium is not going to send hundreds of thousands of soldiers
@2:27 "The biggest mistake - that I would name - was dependency on Russian energy" - yet Latvia was buying most of it's natural gas from Russia even in 2022 far cheaper than Latvia could buy from alternative sources. Being independent from Russia is nice, but if you can't afford more expensive LNG from USA or Norway then that is a mistake too, maybe even bigger mistake. But from which Latvia will suffer in 5 or 10 years paying much higher gas prices.
Wish he was our president instead of dithering Biden.
DHAAUG
Given Germany's pacifist attitudes, I would not be surprised if Germany declared neutrality and joined in that with Austria and Switzerland, leaving European defense against Russia to others.
Germany was not at all pacifist over yugoslavia in the 1990's
@@charlesburgoyne-probyn6044 Germany has by far the lowest %of GDP spend on defense of any NATO member and last year spent just above 1%, where the Nato minimum is 2% of GDP. Basically, Germany expects others to defend it and its defense spend and hesitancy in getting involved in "hard power" reflects that.
@@michaelmazowiecki9195 indeed peace dividend, guilt tripping, looking after newcomers etc we will have to move on mentally from the WW2 era whatever happens
Germany supplied weapons to Slovenia and Croatia to enable their secession by force of arms and recognised them the moment they declared independence, took part in the nato attack on Belgrade on the 58th anniversary their own in 1941, perhaps it correctly knew there would be no risk to themselves at all in this conflict but isn't so sure about Russia hence its hesitation
@@charlesburgoyne-probyn6044 other than Russia, no-one was happy with the behavior of Milosevic Serbia which was pretty much like Putin's Russia : empire building at the cost of its neighbors. The minor ex-republics of ex-yugoslavia all requested assistance against a rapacious Serbia which largely controlled the Yugoslav army. Nato got sucked in only in Kosovo which had been invaded by Serbia.
Mr, cabbage 😋
🫡🇱🇻🫀
Some EU countries worry about world war 3 because they experienced other world wars.
Winston Churchill-'You were given the choice between war and dishonour. You chose dishonour, and you will have war.' - To Neville Chamberlain
To prevent WWIII, the best way is to stop putin in Ukraine. Compromise of Chamberlain accelerated WWII instead. EU countries should have learn lessons from history.
As a German and as a gender neutral being, i thank great United States for blowing up our Nord Stream pipelines. Since we lost our manliness after WW2, we always had this fantasy to be spanked by uncle Sam on a daily basis.
@@qili3899 spoken like a capitalist warmonger.
@@mynjeri5469 US didn’t blow up NS. Stop spreading lies you ding dong
''Speed saves lives'' - Zelensky
The world lived off of america for too long. I know this because i follow where my tax dollars go
Russian bot!
Why didn't Rusia attack Belarusia..
Influenced by Rusia
Ukraine influenced by you
It did, crushed millions into submission, jailed and tortured all those wanting to protect democracy
It also attacked Chechnia, Georgia, killed millions, one of the most murderous countries in the world. Would be good if it changed presidents every 10 years or less
Good that you admit Russia attacked Ukraine. Why do you support murderous attackers?
@@hugoc2660 you make mistakes by far influenced Ukraine. Destabilize that area
Maybe you prefer Navalny or Prigozhyn as president?
And nato nation and people are living back to 1990s..
Lol
You obviously have never travelled out of Russia to say that......get an education.
Does putin want latvia
He wants ALL of the previously Soviet occupied states
he has very clearly indicated this - get your head out of the sand
You have just stayed neutral...
As Ukraine was before Crimea was annexed?
I would let 100 Ukraine go before I would start ww3
I would let you go before I’d let Ukraine go
Baltic Partners should voice their Position more towards German/Central European Countries.
Germany discusses again and again crazy populist topics like "diplomatic negotiations to end war".
So, his answer is...."I told you so?"
So you didn’t listen to the interview cool cool cool.
His, Poland's, Estonia's, Lithuania's...
Russia isn't soviet Union mind you to start with.
Mentality is. Marching the streets in soviet uniforms, dressing kids in military uniform, placing monuments of tyrant as Stalin and having Communist party till today! Are you kidding me? Plus desire to rebuild Soviet union by wet fantasy of one failed kgb nut
Tell that to Putler and his acolytes, ‘cause they seem to be nostalgic of those times and keen on pushing RF down that route again…
The Soviet Union was the Russian Empire by a different name. Today it is still the Russian Empire. Somewhat reduced, hence Putin's fury.