The military operation of Canada in Latvia will be extended by three years, says Carney

Canada Extends Military Mission in Latvia for Three More Years

Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Tuesday that Canada will be extending its military operation in Latvia for another three years. This decision comes more than a decade after the initial launch of the mission following Russia’s first invasion of Ukraine.

During his visit to Riga, Prime Minister Carney met with Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina to make the announcement. The current military operation, known as Operation Rusturance, involves over 2,000 Canadian armed forces in Latvia and is the largest overseas mission for Canada. Canada leads a multinational brigade in Latvia, consisting of approximately 3,000 personnel from 14 NATO countries.

“Our leadership and dedication to this mission will continue for another three years,” stated Prime Minister Carney. “We will enhance the capabilities of the Brigade in Latvia, strengthen collective defense, enhance cooperative security, and maintain a strong NATO presence.”

The initial Canadian mission in Latvia was approved by former Conservative Prime Minister Stephen Harper in response to Russia’s annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. This move led to diplomatic actions, including Russia’s expulsion from the G8.

The full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia began in 2022, with recent high-level discussions focusing on securing a peace agreement. In 2023, former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expanded Canada’s mission in Eastern Europe to deter Russian aggression following the invasion of Ukraine.

Latvian Prime Minister Silina expressed gratitude for the Canadian troops serving in Riga, noting that they speak positively about their time there. She emphasized that Canadian soldiers and their families are warmly welcomed in Latvia and will be well taken care of.

Prime Minister Carney’s visit to Riga follows meetings in Germany and Kiev, where he attended Ukraine’s Independence Day celebrations and met with Polish leaders. He is scheduled to meet with Canadian troops in Latvia before returning to Ottawa.

The decision to extend Canada’s military mission in Latvia underscores the country’s commitment to collective defense and security in the region. With tensions remaining high in Eastern Europe, this continued presence sends a strong message of solidarity and support to NATO allies.