Prime Minister Mark Carney announced during a visit to Latvia that Canada will extend its largest overseas military mission by another three years. The decision reinforces Canada’s leadership role within NATO and underscores its commitment to European security amid ongoing tensions with Russia.
Strengthening NATO’s Presence
Speaking at a joint press conference in Riga alongside Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina, Carney said Canada would “increase the brigade’s capabilities, reinforce collective defense, strengthen cooperative security, and keep NATO’s presence strong.” Operation REASSURANCE currently includes about 2,000 Canadian troops stationed in Latvia, making it Canada’s most significant contribution to NATO operations abroad.
Leadership and Strategy
Canada leads the NATO Multinational Brigade, which is composed of 14 nations and around 3,000 troops in total. The mission began in 2014 in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine and was extended in 2022 following the escalation of the Russia-Ukraine war. Carney reiterated his stance on Russia, invoking Ronald Reagan’s maxim: “we can’t ‘trust but verify’ with Putin … we must deter and fortify.”
Support for European Allies
The extension highlights Canada’s strategic role in bolstering NATO’s eastern flank and reassuring Baltic allies facing heightened security threats. By maintaining and expanding troop presence, Canada aims to ensure deterrence against potential aggression and to support broader NATO defense initiatives.
Looking Ahead
Carney is scheduled to visit Canadian soldiers deployed at a Latvian base before concluding his European trip. His announcement signals not only Canada’s enduring military commitment but also its diplomatic alignment with NATO allies in sustaining pressure on Russia and strengthening transatlantic security cooperation.
By extending Operation REASSURANCE, Canada reaffirms its central role within NATO and its readiness to contribute to European stability. The decision reflects both a commitment to allied defense and a broader strategy of deterrence in the face of ongoing geopolitical challenges.
