In a diplomatic maneuver of utmost significance, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky embarks on his inaugural official visit to the unwavering ally, Canada. This visit comes on the heels of mixed receptions from American lawmakers, with skepticism prevailing over the extension of military assistance to Ukraine.
Canada, firmly entrenched as one of Kyiv’s most steadfast supporters in the ongoing conflict with Russia, is poised to make a resounding statement during this visit. Sources from within the Canadian government suggest an impending announcement of increased weapon shipments to Ukraine.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, in a statement made on the global stage in New York, affirmed Canada’s unwavering commitment to the cause, saying, “Canada will continue to support Ukraine as long as it takes and we will always stand firm to defend the rule of law and the international rules-based order.”
Zelensky’s itinerary includes addressing the Canadian Parliament in Ottawa, followed by a joint press conference with Prime Minister Trudeau. Worth noting is that Zelensky had previously addressed Canadian legislators virtually in March 2022.
Ihor Michalchyshyn, the Executive Director of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress lobby group, underscored Canada’s influential position within both the Group of Seven and NATO. He emphasized that all major Canadian political parties unequivocally support Ukraine, further indicating that stronger military support is a reasonable expectation from a friendly nation.
Canada boasts a significant Ukrainian diaspora, numbering 1.4 million, making it the third-largest after Ukraine and Russia. In contrast to divisions in American political circles over aid approval, Canada enjoys unity in its support for Ukraine, albeit not possessing the same financial and military resources as some of its larger allies.
Since the onset of 2022, Canada has allocated over $5.9 billion in aid to Ukraine, with a substantial portion dedicated to military assistance. The forthcoming arms deal, set to be disclosed by Trudeau, is expected to surpass the C$33 million earmarked for missile defenses, though final details remain undisclosed.
Security analyst David Perry, associated with the Canadian Global Affairs Institute, anticipates the expansion of combat support offerings, along with F-16 fighter jet training for Ukrainian pilots, forming integral components of this comprehensive arms deal.
This pivotal visit underscores Canada’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s plight and the global effort to maintain stability and uphold international norms.
