Latvia’s parliamentary election has produced a strong early result for Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs and his centrist United List, according to partial results released as vote counting continues.

The election took place amid heightened public attention to national security, the war in Ukraine and Latvia’s position on NATO’s eastern flank. Latvia shares borders with Russia and Belarus, making security policy an important issue in the political debate.

With a substantial portion of ballots counted, United List had secured more than a third of the vote, placing it clearly ahead of the other competing parties. The final distribution of seats, however, will depend on the completion of the count and the official allocation of parliamentary seats.

Latvia’s 100-member Saeima is elected for a four-year term. Although the leading party has recorded a significant share of the vote, it will still need support from other political groups to establish a parliamentary majority and form a government.

The election campaign was dominated by concerns about security and the cost of living. Latvia has significantly strengthened its defence capabilities since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, while the government has continued to provide political and military support for Kyiv.

The country’s geographical position has also influenced the political discussion. Latvian authorities have been concerned about possible hybrid threats, including disinformation and cyber activity. Security measures were increased around the election, although Latvia’s security service said it had not identified a systematic foreign interference campaign.

Economic issues were another important concern for voters. Household expenses, affordability and employment have featured prominently in the political debate, alongside questions about government spending and social support.

United List’s performance gives Kulbergs a strong position in the negotiations that will follow the election. However, forming a government will require cooperation with other parties because no single political group is expected to control enough seats to govern alone.

The second-largest political forces include Latvia First and the Sovereign Power/Young Latvians alliance, while several other parties are also positioned to enter parliament based on the partial count.

Foreign policy is expected to remain an important part of Latvia’s next government. The country is a member of both NATO and the European Union and has taken a firm position in support of Ukraine.

The election therefore carries significance beyond Latvia’s domestic politics. Its outcome could influence the country’s defence priorities, relations with European partners and approach to regional security.

As counting continues, attention will shift toward coalition negotiations and the formation of the next government. The final political configuration will determine how Latia addresses security, economic pressures and its broader role within Europe.