LATVIAN LEGAL REQUIREMENTS FOR IRAQ DEPLOYMENT

C O N F I D E N T I A L RIGA 000817 SIPDIS SIPDIS NOFORN E.O. 12958: DECL: 11/01/2017 TAGS: MARR MOPS PREL IZ LG SUBJECT: LATVIAN LEGAL REQUIREMENTS FOR IRAQ DEPLOYMENT REF: STATE 150164 Classified By: Charge d'affaires, a.i. Stuart M. Seldowitz. Reason: 1. 4 (b) ¶1. (C/NF) We have previously discussed with the Latvian government the legal requirements for military deployments overseas in the context of the future of Kosovo. Senior MFA and MOD officials have affirmed to us that Latvia can deploy outside of Latvia in three situations: in a UNSC-mandated/authorized mission; in a NATO-led operation; and in a coalition led by an ally of Latvia. We also believe, but would need to reconfirm, that EU-led missions are covered. A cabinet decision and parliamentary vote would then be needed to provide final authorization. Currently, the mandate for Latvian troops in Iraq (all trainers and headquarters personnel) is reauthorized on an annual basis. ¶2. (C/NF) While there is a legal basis for continued Latvian participation in Iraq absent a UNSCR, we believe that it would be difficult politically and operationally to get Latvia to significantly increase its contribution in such a situation. Politically, it would be much easier to continue to roll over the mandate quietly making only small changes to the text. But an increased deployment to Iraq would create political difficulties among a public that have long strongly opposed the mission and were glad to see the majority of Latvian troops home earlier this year. Operationally, given Latvian commitments to ISAF, we do not think it likely that Latvia could find the troops for a significant augmentation in Iraq. They especially lack the necessary officers. SELDOWITZ