RIGA — Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Canada will maintain its military presence in Latvia until 2029. This decision is part of a broader effort to deter Russian aggression in Europe. Carney made the announcement during his visit to Riga, where he met with Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina.

Currently, there are 2,000 Canadian Armed Forces personnel stationed in Latvia as part of Operation Reassurance, which is Canada’s largest overseas military mission. Canadian troops have been deployed in Latvia since 2017, aimed at bolstering the defense of Europe’s eastern flank and preventing potential Russian incursions into the Baltic states.

The existing mandate for this mission is set to expire in March 2026. However, Carney indicated plans to extend the mission for an additional three years. He emphasized that achieving lasting peace in Europe necessitates a commitment from allies to "deter and fortify." These remarks echo sentiments he expressed during a recent surprise visit to Ukraine, where he commemorated the country’s Independence Day.

The extension of the mission reflects Canada’s ongoing commitment to European security amid rising tensions in the region.