Latvia and the entire Baltic region are viewed positively in Washington today, and the influence of the Baltic states in American politics is significantly higher than one might expect based on their population size. This opinion was expressed in an interview with the LETA agency by Peter Raff, director of the Europe and Eurasia Center at the Hudson Institute. According to him, the Baltic states are well represented in U.S. political circles, especially in Congress. "Latvia has particularly good standing in the U.S. American officials often refer to Latvia as a 'model ally,'" Raff noted. The expert explained that the approaches of the two largest American parties towards Europe differ. He stated that Democrats traditionally pay more attention to cooperation with Brussels and Berlin, while Republicans more often consider the countries of NATO's eastern flank, which are part of the Bucharest Nine format, as key partners. In Raff's opinion, Republicans value the region's states for their understanding of the threats posed by Russia, close cooperation with the U.S., and willingness to invest in their own security. He noted that in Washington, the Baltic states are seen not only as allies in need of support but also as countries that contribute to collective defense. As an example, the expert cited Latvia's increase in defense spending, the deployment of allied forces, investments in military development, and participation in countering hybrid threats. At the same time, Raff pointed out that there are challenges that Latvia cannot influence on its own. In particular, U.S. attention is increasingly shifting towards China, and the American defense industry is facing limitations in ramping up arms supplies. According to the expert, Latvia should actively seek opportunities to participate in the supply chains of the American defense sector. One of the most promising areas, Raff mentioned, is drone manufacturing, noting that Latvian companies already have the relevant competencies. He also considers it important to continue strengthening transatlantic ties and maintaining dialogue between the European Union and the U.S. on China policy. The expert separately touched upon the issue of European strategic autonomy. In his opinion, weakening ties between Europe and the U.S. would not align with Latvia's security interests. Speaking about long-term deterrence of Russia, Raff noted that the Baltic region has sufficient economic and demographic potential; however, he believes that American nuclear guarantees and the development of the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force continue to play a key role.
