The appointment ends two weeks of political instability triggered by a drone security scandal.
Latvia’s parliament on Thursday voted to appoint businessman-turned-politician Andris Kulbergs as the new prime minister, with his priority being security and anti-drone measures.
The 100-seat parliament endorsed Kulbergs’ four-party coalition government by a vote of 66 to 25, demonstrating a strong parliamentary majority comprising the alliance of center-right, conservative and nationalist forces.
Speaking before the vote, Kulbergs said Latvia needed “an effective, professional and accountable government” ready to “take strong decisions.”
He added that his first task will be border security and anti-drone measures, including a compensation mechanism to cover damages. Budget stabilization, fair elections, migration and fighting corruption are also on the agenda, along with ongoing support for Ukraine.
“The economy goes hand in hand with security. Without security, there cannot be an economy, and without an economy, there will not be security,” said Kulbergs.
The new coalition was assembled after two stray Ukrainian drones struck Latvian oil infrastructure earlier in May, prompting Prime Minister Evika Siliņa’s resignation.
Kulbergs, a former automotive businessman and head of Latvia’s Auto Association, only entered parliament in 2022 but quickly built a profile railing against what he called “legalized corruption” in state management.
His cabinet also includes Lebanon-born Health Minister Hosams Abu Meri — a practicing gastroenterologist known for continuing to perform endoscopies while in office — and Defense Minister Raivis Melnis, a career military officer who previously served as a military adviser to Ukraine.
The incoming government will have less than six months to execute its agenda, as Latvia is scheduled to hold parliamentary elections on Oct. 3.