Head of Canadian Forces in Latvia Removed After Being Charged Amid Compensation Probe

Lt.-Gen. Steve Boivin (seated centre) transfers command authority from Col. Vince Kirstein (seated right) to Col. James Smith (seated left) during parade for the Task Force Latvia change of command parade in Riga, Latvia on July 19, 2024. Multinational Brigade Latvia Imagery-Canadian Imagery Technician RPBK

The Canadian military’s operations commander has ordered the “temporary removal” of the soldier leading Canada’s high-profile NATO mission in Latvia, following an investigation into compensation and benefit discrepancies.

Col. James Smith was charged with one count of prejudice to good order and discipline under the National Defence Act by military police on March 31.