Brussels, Belgium – As the war in Ukraine continues to reshape the geopolitical landscape, and new conflicts emerge in the Middle East, the European Union is preparing to reaffirm its commitment to both crises. Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Baiba Braže, will be a key participant in the upcoming EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting on March 16, 2026, in Brussels, where discussions will center on bolstering support for Ukraine, maintaining pressure on Russia, and addressing the escalating security situation in the Middle East.
Braže’s participation comes at a critical juncture. The ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine demands sustained and comprehensive assistance, not only in military aid but also through continued economic and political pressure on Moscow. The EU’s response to the conflict has been a central focus of foreign policy for years, and maintaining a unified front remains paramount. The situation in the Middle East, with its increasing volatility, adds another layer of complexity to the EU’s foreign policy agenda, requiring careful consideration and a coordinated approach.
Strengthening Support for Ukraine
The EU’s unwavering support for Ukraine is expected to be a dominant theme at the Foreign Affairs Council meeting. This support encompasses a broad range of measures, including financial assistance, humanitarian aid, and, crucially, military support. Latvia, under Minister Braže’s leadership, has been a vocal advocate for increased aid to Ukraine, recognizing the importance of enabling the country to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. In November 2025, Braže received the Ukrainian Order of Merit, Second Class, in Kyiv, a testament to Latvia’s dedication to strengthening cooperation with Ukraine and supporting its fight for independence. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Braže for her “significant personal contribution” during the award ceremony, as reported by LSM.lv.
Beyond direct aid, the EU is focused on intensifying pressure on Russia through a comprehensive package of sanctions. These sanctions aim to cripple the Russian economy, limit its access to critical technologies, and hold individuals accountable for their role in the aggression against Ukraine. The EU is also actively working to counter Russian hybrid threats, including disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks, which are designed to destabilize Ukraine and undermine European security. The need to weaken Russia’s capacity to wage war and resume aggression will be a key point of discussion, with Latvia advocating for a maximum level of economic, military, political, and diplomatic pressure.
Navigating the Escalating Middle East Crisis
Alongside the situation in Ukraine, the EU Foreign Affairs Council will address the escalating security situation in the Middle East. The region has been grappling with heightened tensions and conflicts, posing significant challenges to regional stability and international security. Minister Braže and her counterparts will likely discuss potential avenues for de-escalation, humanitarian assistance, and diplomatic engagement. The EU’s approach to the Middle East is guided by a commitment to a two-state solution and a desire to promote peace and stability in the region.
The discussions will also include an informal exchange of views on the EU’s security strategy and its cooperation with countries in Southern Europe. This reflects a broader effort to strengthen the EU’s overall security architecture and enhance its ability to respond to emerging threats. The EU recognizes the importance of working closely with its neighbors to address shared security challenges, such as terrorism, migration, and organized crime.
Strengthening Strategic Partnerships
The EU is also actively pursuing strategic partnerships with key global players. During the Foreign Affairs Council meeting, ministers will meet with Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar to discuss the progress of the EU-India strategic partnership. This partnership encompasses a wide range of areas, including trade, investment, technology, and security. Strengthening ties with India is seen as crucial for diversifying the EU’s partnerships and promoting a rules-based international order.
Baiba Braže’s career has been deeply rooted in Latvian diplomacy, spanning various roles within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs since 1993. Prior to her appointment as Minister of Foreign Affairs in April 2024, she served as the NATO Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy from 2020 to 2023, according to her Wikipedia profile. Her extensive experience in international affairs and her commitment to transatlantic cooperation position her as a key voice within the EU on matters of foreign policy and security.
The Role of the EU Foreign Affairs Council
The EU Foreign Affairs Council serves as a central forum for coordinating the foreign policy of the 27 EU member states. We see responsible for addressing a wide range of issues, including common foreign and security policy, European security and defense policy, external trade, and development cooperation. The Council’s primary objective is to ensure the unity, consistency, and effectiveness of EU external action. The meetings bring together the foreign ministers of each member state, allowing for a comprehensive and coordinated approach to global challenges.
The Council operates under the principle of qualified majority voting, meaning that decisions are typically made based on the support of a majority of member states representing at least 65% of the EU population. This ensures that decisions reflect the collective interests of the EU as a whole. The Council is supported by the European External Action Service (EEAS), which provides policy advice and implements the Council’s decisions.
As the EU navigates an increasingly complex and uncertain world, the Foreign Affairs Council plays a vital role in shaping the bloc’s response to global challenges. The upcoming meeting on March 16th, with the participation of Minister Braže, will be a crucial opportunity to reaffirm the EU’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, addressing the crisis in the Middle East, and strengthening its strategic partnerships.
The next key development to watch will be the official readout of the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting on March 16th, which will provide further details on the discussions and decisions made. Readers interested in staying informed can find updates on the Council’s website and through official EU press releases.
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