Kyiv – Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney arrived in Ukraine on Sunday to commemorate Ukrainian Independence Day as global leaders intensify calls for peace in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, reports 24brussels.
“On this Ukrainian Independence Day, and at this critical moment in their nation’s history, Canada is stepping up our support and our efforts towards a just and lasting peace for Ukraine,”
Carney made this statement on social media upon his arrival in Kyiv.
He is expected to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, revealing further details of the new $2 billion aid package Canada announced during the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, in June. Zelenskyy invited Carney as a special guest to mark Ukraine’s Independence Day.
Canada is part of a coalition of approximately 30 nations, led by France and Britain, which are committed to supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression. This coalition is advocating for robust security guarantees should a peace agreement be reached with Russia, with some member states dispatching troops to uphold these terms.
Is Canada prepared to send troops if peace is reached?
A senior Canadian government official, speaking on background during a briefing, indicated that Canada is ready to participate in troop deployments if the coalition approves. This follows Carney’s remarks made on August 22, where he underscored the importance of training and equipping Ukrainian forces.
Canadian troops are also involved in Europe under Operation Unifier, a mission initiated after Russia annexed Crimea in 2014, aimed at training Ukrainian armed forces.
What is the true scale of Canada’s financial aid?
Canada’s total assistance in the Russia-Ukraine war is reported to be around $22 billion, primarily in loans, according to Ottawa. This figure contrasts with an independent estimate by the Kiel Group, which suggests the amount is closer to $19.7 billion.
Additionally, Canada plays a significant role in humanitarian efforts, offering assistance to resettled Ukrainian children abducted by Russia, enhancing maternal health access, and supporting landmine detection and clearance operations.
When did former Canadian PM Justin Trudeau last visit Ukraine before Carney?
The last visit by a Canadian Prime Minister to Ukraine before Carney was on February 24, 2024, when former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau completed his third annual trip since the escalation of the war in 2022. During that visit, Trudeau met with President Zelenskyy and other world leaders, announcing over $3 billion in military and financial support to Ukraine.
