Anastasija Ringis: A Letter to Latvian Canadians
Dear friends from the Latvian community of Canada,
My name is Anastasia Ringis. I am a journalist from Ukraine. I was forced to move to Canada in 2022 after the Russian full-invasion started. I brought to Canada two teenagers. We all currently live here and are dreaming to go back home.
I address this text to you with the heartfelt gratitude of a nation fighting for its right to live.
Last Saturday, I had the honor of speaking at your annual meeting. I came from Toronto to Ottawa specifically because I wanted to meet all of you in person. I often see people of your community at various events and rallies for Ukraine and each time I feel your warmth, support, and genuine interest in what is happening in Ukraine.
Since the full-scale invasion began, I have been writing for the Latvian publication IR. This professional connection keeps me intellectually aware and allows me to stay in touch with Ukrainian context, colleagues and experts. It’s important for me to be part of the international information community, exchanging thoughts and analysis, and thereby not only supporting Ukraine in its fight but also playing an important role in the global dialogue.
I am especially grateful for the questions you asked me after my speech. One of them was very direct and painful to consider: “What is happening in Ukraine after Trump became president again?”
This is a question millions of Ukrainians are asking themselves — with anxiety and deep fear. We have already seen a lot of negative trends that are very obvious in Ukraine.
There is growing anxiety in society. Ukrainians fear that the new Trump in the U.S. might change its approach to supporting Ukraine — making it more conditional or stopping it at altogether.
Political actors in Ukraine who lean toward pro-Russian narratives are finding new space to manipulate the public, suggesting that “America is tired” and “we will be left alone.” Russian propaganda is also intensifying, actively using the theme of a change in leadership in the U.S. to demoralize society.
Trump has become a factor of destabilization in Ukrainian society. His desire for a quick peace appears, in the eyes of Ukrainians, as pressure on us to agree to an unfavorable and false “peace,” one that would allow Russia to rearm and attack Ukraine even more forcefully. Ukrainians now feel constant blackmail
not only from Russia but also from the United States. This feeling of pressure only heightens our fears and uncertainty about the future.
But I also want to acknowledge the positive signals:
Ukrainian society has become even more united and self-reliant, understanding that Ukrainians must rely on ourselves. This strengthens our internal resilience and confidence in our own abilities. U
Civil society is actively developing. People are more attentive to foreign policy, supporting initiatives to strengthen international ties and demanding more decisive diplomatic action from the government.
Ukraine is making significant progress in producing weapons and military equipment. Nearly 40% of the weapons Ukraine uses for its defence are produced by domestic enterprises. This not only reduces dependence on external supplies but also enables Ukraine to actively develop its own defense industry.
And most importantly, Ukraine’s support in many countries, particularly in Europe, Great Britain, Canada and the Baltic region, does not depend on the political situation in the U.S. This support is based on shared values, the understanding that Ukraine is fighting for democracy, freedom, and independence.
Latvia and Latvians know what it means to lose freedom — and what it takes to regain it.
Your history is one of courage, survival, and rebirth in times of darkness. And today, Ukraine is walking this same path — a path we did not choose but one we walk with dignity.
We see you. We feel your solidarity, your support, your voices standing for truth and justice.
From rallies and charity to political support and advocacy — the Latvian community has shown what it means to be a true friend. A true ally.
Canada is home to a strong and principled Latvian diaspora. And your voice matters.
It is heard in parliaments, in communities, and in the hearts of those who shape policy and public opinion. Please, continue to speak for Ukraine. Continue to stand with us. Continue to be a light in dark times.
Together, we are not just witnesses to history — we are its creators.
Sending you strength, love, and an unshakeable belief
that light will triumph over darkness.
And that freedom — for all of us — will surely prevail.
Thank you!
Anastasija Ringis
