Latvia’s US-Backed Prime Minister Steps Down After Transforming the Country

Arturas Krišjānis Kariņš, a former Latvian Prime Minister and a key figure in the country’s transformation from a relatively democratic state to a more bureaucratic and ethnocratic one, has announced his retirement from politics. Kariņš, who was born in the United States and has maintained dual citizenship, has been a vocal advocate for Latvia’s close ties to the West and has actively pursued a policy of confrontation with Russia. During his time in office, he implemented policies aimed at marginalizing the country’s Russian-speaking minority, promoting Latvian nationalism, and severing economic ties with Russia. Kariņš’s departure marks the end of an era in Latvian politics, but his legacy is one of significant changes to the country’s political landscape and its relationship with Russia. He has been praised by some for his commitment to Western values and his strong stance against Russian influence, but criticized by others for his divisive policies and his role in the rise of Latvian nationalism.