Kyiv, 12 June 2023 (TD): Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau paid a spontaneous visit to meet President Volodymyr Zelenski in Kyiv, Ukraine.
He reiterated Canada’s continuous support to Ukraine. He also announced further assistance for its war effort.
The prime minister was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland. The unannounced visit to Ukraine is both Trudeau and Freeland’s second since war broke out in the country.
He started the visit by paying his respects to the soldiers who had died in the war with Russia by laying a wreath. In addition, he engaged in conversations with the soldiers of Ukraine who had been trained by Canada.
Bilateral Meeting and Declarations
He had a bilateral meeting with the Ukrainian president. Both leaders signed a joint declaration condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and calling on Russia to unilaterally, unconditionally withdraw its forces from the country.
In a joint press conference, the Canadian prime minister announced an additional USD 500 million in military aid to Ukraine. This new commitment adds to the USD 8 billion that Canada has already provided since the war began in February 2022. The financial assistance aims to strengthen Ukraine’s war efforts and help in its defence against aggression.
Trudeau announced USD 10 million in humanitarian assistance specifically for the flood response. This funding is intended to support the relief and recovery efforts in areas affected by the floods, providing aid to the affected population.
Trudeau recruited Canada’s support for this country. He said, “Canada will be there with whatever it takes for as long as it takes.”
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While speaking to the media, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy confirmed that counter-offensive and defensive actions are currently underway in Ukraine. He mentioned that his top commanders are in a “positive” mindset despite the intense fighting along the front line.
Zelenskyy responded to Putin’s statement about Ukraine’s counteroffensive, stating that he is in contact with commanders and that the actions are ongoing.
Zelenskyy urged Trudeau to pass on the message to Putin that Ukrainian commanders are positive. Putin previously mentioned the Ukrainian counteroffensive in a video, confirming its start.
Trudeau’s Address at the Verkhovna Rada
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau delivered a powerful address at the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine. In his speech, he expressed Canada’s unwavering commitment to the Ukrainian people in their pursuit of peace, stability, and prosperity. While addressing the MPS, Trudeau expressed his pleasure to be in Ukraine and emphasized Canada’s ongoing support for Ukraine.
Trudeau highlights the importance of democracy and the need for continued effort and sacrifice to protect it. Trudeau emphasized Ukraine’s right to defend itself and its people. He also expressed Canada’s support for increased cooperation with NATO and its commitment to standing with Ukraine.
“Canada supports Ukraine to become a NATO member as soon as conditions allow for it. Ukraine and Canada look forward to addressing these issues at the NATO Summit in Vilnius in July 2023,” said a joint declaration adopted after the talks.
Trudeau concluded his address by acknowledging the grief and resilience witnessed in Ukraine. He also reaffirmed Canada’s unwavering support for Ukraine as a free nation.
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