Ahead of the 2023 deadline, Canada is re-upping Operation Reassurance in Europe.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the announcement Tuesday during his ongoing trip to discuss Russia’s attack on Ukraine with world leaders.
“In light of the situation in Europe we decided to renew it ahead of schedule,” Trudeau remarked. “The troops here are not only defending Latvia or eastern Europe, they are defending all NATO allies including Canada. They are defending our freedom and security, that’s why this work is so important especially in the face of continued Russian aggression.”
The operation involves Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members conducting training, exercises, and some North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) specific tasks.
Trudeau also took the time pledge more support for Ukraine in their ongoing conflict with Russia.
“We have sent aid, weapons and we will continue to send support to Ukrainians as they stand and defend not just their country but defend democracy, the values that underpin democracy and in fact defend us all.”
One reporter put the question to both the Prime Minister and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg as to how much farther world leaders are willing to go to end the conflict.
“We are here to preserve peace, prevent war and that’s the reason why we are increasing our defensive presence in Latvia and in the rest of the eastern part of the alliance,” responded Stoltenberg.
Trudeau stressed that NATO has never been more united and determined and all members will abide by Article 5.
