Canada's military presence in Latvia will more than double, according to Trudeau

Canada and Latvia have signed a "road map" to reinforce their eastern flank in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The process consists of three phases, with the goal of involving up to 2,200 Canadian troops and adding hundreds of additional Armed Forces members. Brigade buildup is expected to be completed in 2025, and Latvia will work on new infrastructure. By 2026, Canada will complete the full implementation of persistently deployed brigade capabilities to Latvia. The Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, announced that the plans to grow Canada's presence at Ādazi will exceed its current capacity, which is already strained. The additional personnel will reinforce and enhance Canadian land, maritime, and air capabilities and support special operations in central and eastern Europe. Canada has pledged to procure and pre-position critical weapon systems and assist with intelligence and cyberactivities. The NATO alliance has doubled the number of battle groups in the region since the war in Ukraine began, adding them to four countries. NATO leaders, including Trudeau, are expected to gather in Lithuania for their annual summit.