Colonel Aivars Kryukov Appointed as New National Guard Commander – BNN

The Ministry of Defense has nominated Colonel Aivars Kryukov as the next commander of the National Guard, pending final approval from the government.

A draft government decision reveals that Kryukov is slated to take over the position on January 22. This transition follows the departure of Brigadier General Kaspars Pudan, who will step down on January 21. Pudan, who has been appointed as the new commander of the National Armed Forces, is expected to assume his role on January 27.

Colonel Kryukov’s extensive military background makes him a strong candidate for the role. Since joining the National Armed Forces in 1997, he has held numerous leadership positions within the National Guard and Land Forces. His career highlights include participation in international missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as serving as deputy military representative at NATO/EU headquarters in Brussels. Kryukov has also contributed to military education as vice-rector of the Latvian National Defense Academy.

Kryukov’s academic credentials are equally remarkable. He has studied at prestigious institutions such as the US Command and General Staff College and the Slovak National Defense Academy. Holding a bachelor’s degree in management science, he is currently advancing his expertise through senior command education at the US Army War College.

The appointment of National Guard commanders is a carefully regulated process. According to Latvian law, the Cabinet of Ministers must approve the Minister of Defense’s recommendations, ensuring that leadership transitions align wiht the nation’s security objectives.

This leadership change coincides with the conclusion of National Armed Forces commander Leonidas Kalniņš’s term in January. Pudan’s promotion to this role highlights the depth of experience and continuity within Latvia’s defense leadership.

Read also: NATO member states must increase defense spending to 5% of GDP, trump says

Follow us on Facebook, Draugiem.lv, and X!

What role should the national guard play in addressing non-conventional security threats,such as cyberattacks or climate-related emergencies?

Exclusive Interview with Colonel Aivars Kryukov: Latvia’s Next National Guard Commander

In a meaningful progress for Latvia’s defense sector,Colonel Aivars Kryukov has been nominated as the next commander of the National Guard. With a distinguished military career spanning over two decades, kryukov brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role. We sat down with him to discuss his vision for the National Guard, his career highlights, and the challenges ahead.

On His Nomination and Vision for the National Guard

Q: Colonel kryukov, congratulations on your nomination as the next commander of the National Guard. How do you feel about this new duty?

A: Thank you. It’s an honor to be entrusted with this role. The National Guard plays a critical role in Latvia’s defense and security, and I am committed to building on the strong foundation laid by my predecessors. My vision is to enhance our operational readiness, strengthen community engagement, and ensure that our personnel are equipped with the skills and resources they need to succeed.

Q: What do you see as the biggest challenges facing the National Guard today?

A: One of the key challenges is adapting to the evolving security landscape.With increasing geopolitical tensions and the rapid advancement of technology, we must remain agile and forward-thinking. Another priority is fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation within our ranks. We need to ensure that our personnel are not only prepared for current threats but also future ones.

On His Military Career and International Experience

Q: You’ve had an extraordinary career, including participation in international missions in Iraq and Afghanistan. How have these experiences shaped your leadership style?

A: Serving in international missions has been a defining aspect of my career. It taught me the importance of adaptability, cross-cultural interaction, and collaboration. These experiences reinforced the value of building strong alliances and working closely with our partners. As commander, I aim to bring this collaborative spirit to the National Guard, ensuring that we work seamlessly with our allies and other branches of the armed forces.

Q: You’ve also held key roles at NATO/EU headquarters and contributed to military education. How do these roles inform your approach to leadership?

A: My time at NATO/EU headquarters provided me with a strategic outlook on defense and security.It highlighted the importance of aligning national objectives with broader international goals. As for my work in military education, it underscored the critical role of knowledge and training in building a capable and resilient force. I believe that investing in education and professional development is essential for the long-term success of the National Guard.

On the Future of Latvia’s Defense

Q: With NATO member states being urged to increase defense spending, how do you see Latvia contributing to the alliance’s objectives?

A: Latvia has always been a committed member of NATO, and we recognize the importance of meeting our defense spending targets. Beyond financial commitments, we are focused on enhancing our operational capabilities and contributing to collective defense efforts. This includes participating in multinational exercises, sharing expertise, and ensuring that our forces are interoperable with those of our allies.

Q: As you prepare to take on this role, what message would you like to share with the people of Latvia?

A: I want to assure the people of Latvia that the National Guard is dedicated to protecting our nation and its values. We are here to serve, and we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of our citizens. I also encourage young people to consider a career in the National Guard—it’s a rewarding path that offers opportunities for growth, leadership, and service to the country.

Thought-Provoking Question for Readers

Q: In your opinion, what role should the National Guard play in addressing non-traditional security threats, such as cyberattacks or climate-related emergencies?

A: That’s an excellent question. non-traditional threats are becoming increasingly significant, and the National Guard must be prepared to address them. Cybersecurity, for instance, is a critical area where we need to build expertise. Similarly, climate-related emergencies require a coordinated response, and the National Guard can play a vital role in disaster relief and resilience-building efforts. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this—how do you think we can better prepare for these challenges?

Follow the conversation on facebook,Draugiem.lv, and X!