Riga Dialogue 2025

Riga Dialogue 2025, held on May 26 – 27, gathered 35 high-ranking representatives from politics, society and academia to discuss the evolving geopolitical landscape and consider strategic priorities in light of ongoing global challenges. With panels focusing on security perceptions, European defence capacity, pathways to peace in Ukraine, and Russia's future military posture, this year's discussions captured a sense of urgency and simultaneously opportunity for rethinking the role of the West, but more importantly to redefine the role of Baltic Sea region states within it.

The event was officially opened by Latvia's Foreign Minister Baiba Braže during which she underscored the importance of strong alliances and a clear strategic approach in today's complex geopolitical landscape, where power balances and values are subject to change and debate.

After the opening remarks the Riga Dialogue started with the “Security Radar 2025” panel, examining how public perceptions of security and diplomacy have evolved three years into Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Drawing on data from across 14 countries, participants reflected on the shifting attitudes towards Europe’s future and the roles of international institutions. This was followed by a panel on “Defending Europe from Russia - Can Europe Defend Itself Without the U.S.?”, which explored Europe’s strategic autonomy, its defence capabilities, and the need for smart, future-proof investments. Experts stressed the importance of preparing for a range of scenarios, including reduced U.S. involvement in European security.

The afternoon panels turned toward possible paths to peace in “Ukraine – Toward What Kind of Peace?”, assessing potential policy models and their implications for sovereignty and stability in the region. The conversation focused on maintaining Western support while reinforcing defence structures, especially in frontline states. The panel “How Might Russia Fight Its Next War?” addressed Russia’s evolving military doctrine, with emphasis on hybrid tactics, cyber operations, and nuclear threats. With potential conflict zones stretching from the Baltics to the Arctic, panellists called on NATO to adapt to a more flexible and unpredictable security environment.

The public panel on Russia’s economic resilience asked whether sanctions are achieving their intended goals. Experts agreed that while sanctions have not brought the Russian economy to its knees, they still matter – as incremental pressure points that accumulate over time. However, the panel warned against overestimating sanctions as a singular strategy. Russia has adapted, learning from previous rounds and reorienting economically. Going forward, economic tools must be smarter, better targeted, and embedded in a broader geopolitical strategy.

A recurring theme across all discussions was the need for unity – both transatlantic and within Europe itself. Drawing parallels to the post-Cold War 1990s, participants stressed that the West must rediscover the cohesion and confidence that once defined it. Facing a more aggressive and authoritarian Russia, any future settlement must not only weaken the regime but also address the broader challenge of dismantling its authoritarian foundations.

The recording of the public panel “How Is Russia Still Standing? Sanctions, Resilience, and Economic Realities” can be viewed on Youtube.

Riga Dialogue is a high-level international roundtable now in its 11th edition, which brings together leading policymakers and experts not only from Baltic Sea region, but also from the EU, U.S., and neighbouring regions. Riga Dialogue serves as a trusted platform for off-the record discussions on key challenges in the region and opportunities for the Euro-Atlantic community. Thanks to the Latvian Institute of International Affairs and its partners, Riga Dialogue remains a vital platform for candid conversation and strategic foresight in the Baltics and the world.