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Minister of Finance to announce job cuts across ministries

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Arvils Ašeradens is set to unveil plans to shrink the state workforce, an initiative that aligns the Minister of Finance with the President of the Bank of Latvia. The central banker has long argued the public sector is too large; the ministry now appears to agree.

Air defense remained active overnight as several drones approached or entered Latvian airspace. The National Armed Forces provided an explanation for the incursions. Meanwhile, questions remain over the €545m taxpayers have put into airBaltic, which the State Audit Office suggests may never be recovered.

Arguments over Russian transit also continue. While Minister of Finance Kulbergs considers three different ways to ban the transport of Russian grain, cargo trains continue to cross the border. Some officials argue Latvia can act without waiting for a signal from Brussels, noting that money and big politics currently outweigh the ethical case for a total blockade.

Top stories

Government Plans Staff Reductions

Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs is poised to reveal a plan to reduce the number of employees across ministries. This initiative aligns with the President of the Bank of Latvia's advocacy for a reduction in public sector staff, signaling a broader focus on government efficiency and fiscal responsibility.

Drones Breach Latvian Airspace

Multiple drones were detected crossing into or approaching Latvian airspace overnight, raising national security concerns and prompting explanations from the National Armed Forces.

AI Pioneers Latvian Filmmaking

Director Oskars Morozs and special effects artist Māris Lagzdiņš have made history by using artificial intelligence for the first time in Latvia to create the elaborate fairy tale world in their film "Christopher and the Key to Two Worlds."

IR AI Opens New Possibilities, But Cannot Generate a Soul: "Christopher and the… ↗

Criticism Over Russian Trade and Governance

Commentator Lato Lapsa has sharply criticized societal issues and Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs' stance on Russia, particularly concerning the transit of Russian grain and cargo through Latvia. Discussions continue on whether Latvia should independently ban such transit, and there are calls for ministerial positions to be held by professionals.

airBaltic Investment Under Scrutiny

Concerns are mounting over the substantial taxpayer investment in airBaltic, with questions arising about whether the more than 545 million euros invested have effectively been written off, as highlighted in a 2025 State Audit Office report.

Pietiek "airBaltic" – have the more than 545 million euros invested by taxpayers… ↗

Breakthrough in Cancer Treatment Research

Young scientist Kristaps Paļskis is being recognized for his innovative and world-class research in cancer treatment methods, conducted at CERN, focusing on advanced radiation therapies to more effectively target and destroy tumor cells.

IR Young Scientist Kristaps Paļskis' Genius in Cancer Treatment ↗

Reflecting on WWII Children's Experiences

A new examination delves into the reasons behind Latvia's prolonged historical silence regarding the experiences and stories of children during World War II.

IR Why Did Latvia Remain Silent About WWII Children for So Long? ↗

Viesturs Koziols Interview

An interview with Latvian businessman and sports official Viesturs Koziols is featured in the "D sektorā" segment, providing insights into his various activities.

Delfi Interview with Viesturs Koziols in "D sektorā" at 9:30 ↗

Lāčplēsis Day Celebrations

Lāčplēsis Day, a significant day of remembrance for Latvian heroes, will be widely celebrated across Latvia with various events and information compiled for public participation.

TVNET Lāčplēsis Day Celebrated Widely Across Latvia ↗