Canada Extends Military Mission in Latvia Three Years

Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced a three-year extension of Canada's military mission in Latvia, known as Operation Reassurance, aimed at deterring Russian aggression and strengthening NATO's eastern flank. The mission, which started in 2014 after Russia's initial invasion of Ukraine, currently involves over 2,000 Canadian troops leading a multinational brigade of about 3,500 soldiers from 14 NATO countries. Carney emphasized Canada's commitment to increasing the brigade's capabilities and reinforcing collective defense, while also highlighting the government's pledge to raise defense spending to meet NATO targets. During his visit to the Canadian Forces at Camp Adazi in Latvia, Carney discussed the importance of supporting troops through pay raises and potential equipment upgrades. The extension ensures Canada's leadership role in the region will continue until at least 2029, reinforcing cooperative security and NATO presence. Carney also noted the broader context of strengthening trade and defense ties with Europe, including a critical minerals deal with Germany to diversify supply chains away from China and Russia.