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In response to concerns from the U.S. that other nations in NATO are not doing enough, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that German and Canada are the nations (besides the U.S.) who are doing the “heavy lifting” in NATO.

But is that true on Canada’s part? Does the assignment of a warship or two and a small land contingent for training and other activities constitute “heavy lifting.” Does taking part in NATO exercises, which other nations do as well, show Canada as leading the other members of the alliance in contributions?

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In defending Canada on the issue of military spending, Trudeau also said the country is in the midst of “significant procurement projects.” But then, of course, so are many other nations.

Here is what the Department of National Defence noted that Canada is contributing to NATO:

OPERATION REASSURANCE

Maritime Task Force

–The periodic deployment of a Canadian frigate to conduct patrols and assurance measures as part of Standing NATO maritime forces; The deployment of HMCS Charlottetown and HMCS St. John’s to conduct patrols and assurance measures as part of Standing NATO maritime forces.