Latvia’s one million euro gift to Ukraine: 271 cars confiscated from drunk drivers
5:53 PM EST, December 25, 2023
As of mid-December 2023, Latvia has donated up to 271 seized vehicles to Ukraine. These vehicles were taken from individuals caught drinking and driving. After confiscation, the Baltic country determined the fate of these cars. According to the Latvian tax authority, the accumulated value of these gifted cars amounts to a million euros.
Furthermore, as reported by the "Ukrainian Truth" newspaper, documentation is currently being prepared for the Latvian government's review, regarding an additional donation of 34 seized vehicles to Ukraine, valued at 161,880 euros. Latvian authorities are unflinching in enforcing their drunk driving laws, while simultaneously supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression.
On February 16, the Latvian parliament unanimously passed amendments to the law to assist the civilian population striving in Ukraine. These amendments enable the state to transfer confiscated cars to the Ukrainian government for free, a gesture to bolster support for the Ukrainian society.
The objective is to strengthen the fight against the Russian invader, a battle that has already persisted for two years. This inspired the initiative of relocating seized vehicles to Kyiv. As reported by the media, 271 cars, initially confiscated from drunk drivers in Latvia, are now in Ukraine. It seems this time, driving under the influence has a silver lining.
All these vehicles were transported to Ukraine in a special convoy, led by Reinis Poznaksa. Latvia has already donated 1,100 diverse vehicles, with a total value of around 2 million euros, to Ukraine. Regular weekly deliveries are made. This small Baltic country is doing its utmost in supporting Ukraine in their difficult struggle against Russia.
Krišjānis Kariņš, the former Latvian Prime Minister and current Minister of Foreign Affairs, conveyed in an interview with "Ukrainian Truth" that "the entire Latvian society supports Ukraine. This includes even those who were penalized by the police for drink-driving".
Latvia is one of the European Union countries that confiscates the cars of drivers caught driving under the influence. Similar regulations are being considered in Poland.
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