RIGA, May 13 (LETA) - The Progressives call on President Edgars Rinkevics to start consultations on formation of a new government, said Andris Suvajevs, the head of the Progressives Saeima faction, after a meeting with Prime Minister Evika Silina (New Unity) on Wednesday.

As reported, the prime minister on Wednesday offered the Progressives to continue cooperation.

Silina said that the Progressives did not announce their decision on future cooperation during the talks, as they wish to discuss the matter further. The prime minister proposed that her nominee for the position of Minister of Defense, Colonel Raivis Melnis, could be the nominee put forward by the entire coalition.

Following Silina’s decision to dismiss Defense Minister Andris Spruds (Progressives), the Progressives party stated that Silina is unable to lead the current government responsibly. At the same time, the political party wanted to meet with the prime minister before announcing a final decision on further action.

On Wednesday afternoon, the Progressives and Silina met, accompanied by the party's nominee for defense minister, Colonel Melnis.

The PM previously stated that if the Progressives decide to leave the government, a technical government will begin work.

On Sunday evening, Defense Minister Andris Spruds (Progressives) announced his resignation, and at the same time, his resignation was demanded by Silina, who had already approached Colonel Melnis to take up the post of defense minister, and he reportedly accepted. The prime minister believes that the ministry should be led by a professional.

The prime minister's decision comes after the drone incidents in Latgale, pointing to a loss of confidence in the minister and problems in the sector.

For his part, Spruds has announced his resignation, taking political responsibility and trying to prevent the army from becoming entangled in political games. At the same time, an assessment of the National Armed Forces' response to incidents and work on strengthening air defense continues.