Latvians went to the polls on Saturday to elect a new parliament amid heightened concerns over potential Russian aggression. Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs, leader of the centrist United List party, is seeking his first full term after assuming office earlier this year. The election takes place as Latvia, a NATO member bordering Russia and Belarus, continues to navigate security challenges related to Moscow’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

The current government was formed in June following a political crisis triggered by disagreements over handling stray drones presumed to be Ukrainian. The crisis led to the collapse of the previous coalition, prompting the parliament, known as the Saeima, to approve a new four-party alliance headed by Kulbergs, previously an opposition figure.

Kulbergs, 47, appeared optimistic about the election’s outcome after voting in Riga, expressing a commitment to strengthening both the nation’s defense and its economy. “A strong economy can only bring strong defense,” he said, underlining his agenda for the next four years if granted another term.

Latvia’s political landscape remains fragmented, making the formation of a multiparty coalition government likely. To gain seats in the 100-member Saeima, parties must surpass a 5% vote threshold. Approximately 1.56 million eligible voters, out of a population of just over 1.8 million, participated in the election.

Voters expressed a desire for stability and sound governance amid uncertain geopolitical conditions. “I want to see just democracy in action, people voicing their opinions on who should govern for the next term,” said Jānis Artis Briedis, a voter in Riga. Another voter, Reinholds Pirags, acknowledged the challenges ahead but remained hopeful, stating the incoming coalition may not be perfect but would steer Latvia in the right direction on defense and economic matters.

Security concerns were heightened during the election period due to fears of potential hybrid attacks—tactics including sabotage, cyberattacks, and disinformation campaigns—which have increased across parts of Europe. NATO responded by bolstering Latvia’s airspace protection, deploying four German Eurofighter jets to the country for about a week.

Despite these precautions, the Latvian State Security Service reported no significant or systematic attempts by Russia or other actors to interfere in the election favoring any party or candidate, according to local reports. The results of the vote will shape Latvia’s political course during a critical period for the Baltic region’s security and economic stability.