Ukraine received 21 Patria 6×6 armoured personnel carriers from Latvia during a ceremony at the Ādaži Military Base in Riga on Thursday, 6 November. The event took place during the working visit of Ukrainian Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal, who accepted the vehicles as the final batch of Latvia’s pledged armoured platforms.
Latvian Defence Minister Andris Sprūds underlined Latvia’s firm support for Ukraine since the first day of Russia’s full-scale invasion. He said Latvia stands with Ukraine’s defenders and supports their fight to protect their country. He also noted that the donation allows Ukraine to test Latvian-made vehicles in demanding combat conditions.
Latvia handed over 21 Patria 6×6 APCs, each equipped with a 12.7 mm NATO-calibre support machine gun and ammunition. Ukraine also received spare parts, special repair tools, a mobile repair workshop, and full maintenance documentation. Latvia included combat damage repair kits, which allow crews to repair vehicles near the front line when evacuation is not possible.
The Ukrainian Special Operations Forces will adopt the new vehicles immediately. The delivery completes Latvia’s full pledge of 42 Patria 6×6 armoured personnel carriers, all transferred during 2025. Latvia also supplied 12 CVR(T) reconnaissance vehicles under a previous military aid package.
Minister Shmyhal thanked the Government of Latvia and the Latvian people for what he called exceptional and consistent support. He said Ukraine values every action Latvia takes in solidarity with Ukrainian soldiers. He stressed that the fight continues as Russia increases pressure along several sectors, and he called for continued joint resolve.
He also expressed gratitude for Latvia’s additional €2.2 million contribution to the PURL initiative, its support to the Shelter Coalition, and its role in Operation Renovator, NATO’s project to rebuild and upgrade five military rehabilitation centres in Ukraine.
Minister Shmyhal voiced hope for progress on a proposed reparations credit mechanism based on frozen Russian assets. He said joint action is essential, as the issue directly affects the future security of Ukraine and other European nations.
Latvia plans to raise its military support to 0.3% of GDP in 2025, while expanding training programmes for Ukrainian soldiers. The arrival of the final Patria 6×6 vehicles strengthens Ukraine’s mobility, boosts its frontline resilience, and highlights Latvia’s long-term commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defence against Russian aggression.
