Canada deploys largest Europe force in 30 years ahead of NATO summit

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Monday told NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte that Canada has deployed its largest sustained military presence in Europe in more than three decades, highlighting Ottawa's generational increase in defense investment ahead of next week's alliance summit in Ankara.

The two leaders discussed key priorities including measures to strengthen defense capabilities and continued support for Ukraine, according to a statement from Carney's office. They agreed to continue working closely to ensure a strong, united NATO Alliance and looked forward to meeting in person at the July 7-8 gathering.

Defense spending milestones

Carney noted that Canadian defense spending matched NATO's target of 2% of gross domestic product for the first time since the fall of the Berlin Wall. His office added that Ottawa is on track to reach the alliance's more recent target of 5% of GDP.

"Over the last year, through Operation REASSURANCE, Canada has deployed its largest sustained military presence in Europe in more than three decades," the statement said. The deployment marks a generational shift in Canada's Euro-Atlantic security commitment.

Ankara summit stakes

The July 7-8 summit in Ankara will bring together leaders from all 32 NATO members alongside top military commanders and defense and foreign ministers. US President Donald Trump's decision to attend the major global event — after months of strained ties with European allies — raises the stakes for the talks.