Meeting with the Washington Examiner and a number of other media outlets this week, Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprūds expressed his affection for America and expectation that Latvia would maintain close relations with both parties in Congress.

That in mind, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) should have been able to find the time to meet with Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa during her visit to Washington this week. The Latvians requested the meeting but Johnson’s office told them it couldn’t find the time to make it happen. While the Latvians said that they understand Johnson’s time constraints and appreciate his office’s engagement, Johnson’s decision is an unfortunate one.