For the first time in several centuries, a large force of Swedish troops has arrived in Latvia.

Axar.az reports that the port of Rīga is where the 500-strong Swedish contingent arrived, to join the ranks of the Canadian-led NATO multinational brigade stationed in Latvia.

On December 12, the Swedish Parliament supported a proposal to participate in the NATO multinational brigade in Latvia in the long term with one mechanized infantry battalion, in which up to 600 soldiers will perform their duties.

It is the first time Sweden has deployed its soldiers to another NATO member state since joining the alliance on March 7, 2024.

The multinational brigade in Latvia currently brings together forces from 13 NATO member states – Albania, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Iceland, Italy, Canada, Latvia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain.

"The number of allied soldiers and military equipment in Latvia continues to grow. Sweden's joining the NATO Multinational Brigade in Latvia is a clear demonstration that the alliance is united, and any hostile actions by Russia will be met with a clear response. I am confident that our joint military exercises will provide an excellent experience for the soldiers of Sweden, Latvia, and other allies," said Latvian Minister of Defense Andris Spruds.