Latvia holds parliamentary election amid Russia security concerns and rising living costs

Latvia, a Baltic country, holds parliamentary elections on Saturday amid concerns over security threats from neighbouring Russia and rising living costs. According to the latest survey by the SKDS Institute, the centre-right United List, led by Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs, is in front with more than 14 percent support.

Surveys show that the current coalition, comprising National Alliance, Union of Greens and Farmers, New Unity and United List, is unlikely to retain power. The Sovereign Power Party, led by Julia Stepanenko, is estimated to win about 9 percent of the vote. The party, which has been accused of being soft on Russia, opposes military aid to Ukraine and increases in the defence budget. Most major parties have signalled that they will not cooperate with it.

Businessman Ainars Slesers' Latvia First is considered a possible partner. The Progressives, who favour continued support for Ukraine, are estimated to win about 6 percent. Around 20 percent of voters have not yet made up their minds. Although 14 parties and alliances are contesting, only seven are expected to clear the 5 percent threshold for parliamentary entry.

Latvia has been a member of NATO and the European Union since 2004 and has been spending about 5 percent of its gross domestic product on defence. Even after the election, the likelihood of a major shift in the country's pro-European and pro-Ukraine foreign policy appears low.