Canada announces the extension of Operation REASSURANCE

Toronto: Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced the extension of Operation REASSURANCE, Canada’s contribution in support of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s (NATO) Assurance Measures in Central and Eastern Europe, until June 2016. Canada’s continued support of NATO’s efforts to promote security and stability in Central and Eastern Europe demonstrates the Government’s steadfast commitment to our Allies in the region.

It is also part of Canada’s broader response to the Putin regime’s aggression in Ukraine. Canada’s position on Ukraine has been clear: we recognize the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and will never recognize the illegal Russian occupation of Crimea or any region of that country.

Operation REASSURANCE refers to the military activities undertaken by the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) to support NATO Assurance Measures through the provision of military capabilities for training, exercises, demonstrations and assigned NATO tasks.

“The Putin regime’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine has highlighted the continued importance of assuring the security of NATO Allies, and Canada remains steadfast in its commitment to continue to work to promote stability and security in Central and Eastern Europe, including through the extension of Operation REASSURANCE.” – Prime Minister Stephen Harper

“On behalf of all Canadians, I want to express my deepest gratitude to all members of the Canadian Armed Forces for advancing the cause of freedom and security with our allies facing ongoing aggression by the Putin regime.”  – Prime Minister Stephen Harper