RIGA, March 2 (LETA) - Latvian residents voice their support to Ukraine, pray for its freedom and residents in rallies across the country.

People in Balvi were addressed by Daugavpils diocese bishop Einars Alpe, underscoring that it is important to be united and support Ukrainian residents in their fight for independence of their country.

Balvi municipal council chairman Sergejs Maksimovs (Latgale Party) called on residents to think what each of them can do to help the Ukrainian war victims.

Latvian President Egils Levits today attended national partisan armed resistance remembrance day events at Stompaki camp in Susaji rural territory, Balvi municipality. The even was also attended by Agricultural Minister Kaspars Gerhards (National Alliance), Justice Minister Janis Bordans (New Conservative Party) and Defense Minister Artis Pabriks (For Development/For).

"Ukraine and Ukraine's brave fight for its freedom is our minds and hearts today. Russia has breached international laws cynically and brutally. Russia proposes to return in the past where the appetite of the power defines everything. The response to this situation should be simple - no compromises are possible with the aggressor. The aggressor must be stopped," said Levits.

He underscored that Ukraine in its fight does not stand alone. Russia's war against Ukraine is condemned by the world. Ukraine is receiving the necessary assistance, arms.

"Our message is clear: we stand for free and well-off Ukraine together with us in Europe. Humanity and common sense should win," he said.

Kuldiga municipal council deputy chairwoman Nellija Kleinberga (For Kuldiga Municipality) addressed a rally in Skrunda, asking Latvian people to stand as united as the people in Ukraine, defending their independence.

People of Valmiera municipality hold a meeting on the border with Estonia - in Ungurini of Koni municipality - where local administration of both bordering municipalities addressed the people, voicing their support to Ukraine in its fight against Russian invasion in the country.

Rallies across Latvia are organized at the initiative of the Latvian Association of Local Governments.