Story perspectives

Canada to Recruit Foreign Soldiers Amid Security Concerns

2/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Liberal government plans to recruit foreign soldiers to address critical military staffing shortages, creating a new category for skilled recruits who can apply for permanent residency.
Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab announced the new category.
Concerns about trustworthiness, security clearances, and loyalties have emerged.
Retired Master Warrant Officer Jeff Evely urged clarity on which countries would supply recruits, noting past hosting of foreign troops raised security questions.

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Story summary

The Liberal government plans to recruit foreign soldiers to address critical military staffing shortages, creating a new category for skilled recruits who can apply for permanent residency.
Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab announced the new category.
Concerns about trustworthiness, security clearances, and loyalties have emerged.
Retired Master Warrant Officer Jeff Evely urged clarity on which countries would supply recruits, noting past hosting of foreign troops raised security questions.