Scrutiny grows over Canadian troops serving with US forces in Minneapolis

(MENAFN) Concerns are growing over Canadian soldiers serving within US military units as tensions rise between Washington and Ottawa, particularly amid worries that formations including Canadian personnel could be drawn into domestic missions linked to immigration enforcement in Minneapolis.

Earlier this month, US defense authorities announced the activation of two infantry battalions from an Alaska-based airborne division recognized for its cold-weather specialization and nicknamed the “Arctic Angels.” These units include Canadian service members embedded through long-standing exchange arrangements.

According to reports, the activated battalions could be tasked with supporting US immigration authorities and other federal agencies in Minneapolis, where unrest has been connected to immigration policies.

Canada has hundreds of military personnel integrated into US forces under bilateral exchange programs, including senior ranks such as brigadier generals, major generals, and admirals.

Lower-ranking Canadian officers are also widely distributed across the US Army, Air Force, Navy, Space Force, and the Department of Defense.

Among those serving in senior roles is Brigadier General Robert McBride, a Canadian officer who holds the position of deputy commanding general for operations within the Alaska-based airborne division.

The situation has sparked debate inside Canada, particularly given differing approaches to domestic security and immigration enforcement under the current US administration.

While Canadian personnel embedded in US units operate under American command structures, they remain subject to Canadian military law and are expected to act in line with Canada’s national interests.

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