Canada Strengthens Ties with Latvia, Renews Key NATO Mission

Prime Minister Mark Carney arrived in Riga today to reinforce Canada’s commitment to NATO and transatlantic security, announcing a three-year renewal of Operation REASSURANCE, the Canadian Armed Forces’ largest overseas mission.

During his meeting with Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa, Carney emphasized Canada’s role in leading NATO’s multinational brigade in Latvia, a force of approximately 3,000 troops from 14 Allies. The mission, launched in 2014 after Russia’s first invasion of Ukraine, now deploys around 2,000 Canadian personnel dedicated to deterring Russian aggression and protecting NATO territory.

“Canadians can be proud that our troops will continue to lead Operation REASSURANCE in this critical mission – for greater security, stability, and prosperity in Europe and around the world,” Carney said.

Defence Minister David J. McGuinty, who accompanied the prime minister, praised the professionalism and commitment of Canadian soldiers on NATO’s Eastern Flank. “Their dedication helps deter threats, protect the region, and uphold the democratic values that sustain peace and stability at home and abroad,” McGuinty noted.

NATO’s Eastern Flank and the Ukraine War

Carney and Siliņa underscored the urgency of ending Russia’s war in Ukraine and securing a just and lasting peace. Both leaders highlighted the importance of security guarantees not only for Ukraine but also for Europe’s long-term stability. Discussions also touched on the link between security and economic growth, with Canada seeking to strengthen defense cooperation alongside trade ties with Europe.

Canada’s Growing Defense Role

The renewal ensures sustained brigade strength and military capabilities in Latvia, with plans to complete a persistently deployed force of up to 2,200 Canadian Armed Forces members by 2026.

This expansion is part of a broader Canadian defense build-up:

• In June, Carney announced defense investments exceeding $9 billion for 2025–26, meeting NATO’s 2% spending target.

• At July’s NATO Summit in The Hague, Canada pledged to raise defense spending further—3.5% of GDP on core defense and 1.5% on security relations by 2035.

• Earlier this month, the government delivered the largest pay raise for CAF members in a generation.

Strategic Signal to Russia

Renewing Operation REASSURANCE signals Canada’s intent to remain a cornerstone of NATO deterrence in Eastern Europe. As the war in Ukraine grinds on, Ottawa’s decision highlights a long-term commitment to European security and to maintaining pressure on Moscow.