Understanding the complexities of Russia and Canada’s political relationship isn’t easy. However, Russia couldn’t invade Canada without first controlling the Arctic Circle. This is somewhere that Canada has heavily fortified with military personnel. Moreover, government & military personnel have suggested that Canada be defended at all costs.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Marc Garneau, stated:
Canada will continue to stand firm against the forces of lying and fear, of oppression and hate, of criminality and corruption. For this is fundamentally who we are as Canadians. Our commitment to human rights and the rule of law extends well beyond our shores. Canada will continue its work to promote respect for the rights of people everywhere.
Military powers in Canada haven’t shied away from questions regarding the potential of Russia's invasion. For example, Canada’s Ex-Chief of Defense, General Wayne Eyre, stated:
Let me start off by saying the threat of that right now is very low. That’s not to say it wouldn’t change decades into the future. We don’t know.
Harjit Saijan, the former Minister of National Defense in Canada, provided additional context. He stated:
NATO remains essential, in the face of renewed Russian aggression, and the rise of violent extremism. Our government has returned Canada to a leadership role in NATO. We will sustain that role.
The Minister of Public Services and Procurement, Aninta Anand, stated:
Defending Canada’s Arctic Sovereignty requires a commitment to working with provincial, territorial and Indigenous partners, and today’s announcement demonstrates just that.
Justin Trudeau, the Prime Minister of Canada, spoke at the White House on March 24th, 2023. He stated:
If we want to keep Canadians and Americans safe at home, we have to continue defending our values around the world, values like democracy, the rule of law, and respect for the international rules-based order.
The recent comments from military & government officials across Canada suggest that the Canadian Armed Forces will protect its interests at home and abroad. An estimated 68 Thousand full-time members are in the CAF, with 27 Thousand reserve members. This means that assistance from America would be needed under a realistic invasion. Fortunately, Canada maintains an arsenal of modern weapons and equipment. This includes unmanned aerial vehicles, fighter jets, tanks, and submarines. It would be possible for the CAF to defend Canada without the assistance of America. However, proactive measures would be taken to ensure the invasion is ended quickly. This is where the involvement of America would come into play.
Nobody should doubt the capabilities of Canada. The Canadian Armed Forces played pivotal roles throughout World War One, World War Two, and the Korean War. They have also assisted with countless peacekeeping missions across the globe. You can be ensured that numerous countries would come to Canada’s aid against Russia. An invasion wouldn’t last long. Vladimir Putin would be beaten, as he’s now being destroyed in Ukraine.
