Yesterday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, on the margins of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Summit in Washington, D.C., United States of America.
The Prime Minister reiterated his condemnation of Russia’s increased indiscriminate attacks on civilians, including Russia’s recent abhorrent attack on Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital in Kyiv, Ukraine, and he offered further support in the wake of these attacks. He also underscored how these horrific attacks have only served to further strengthen NATO’s unity and resolve in support of Ukraine as Russia continues its unjustifiable war of aggression.
Prime Minister Trudeau reaffirmed Canada’s ongoing and unwavering support for Ukraine. He noted Canada’s commitment to provide an additional $500 million in military assistance to Ukraine as part of NATO’s Pledge of Long-Term Security Assistance for Ukraine, as well as further support to enhance F-16 training for Ukrainian pilots through the Ukraine Defense Contact Group Air Force Capability Coalition.
The leaders also exchanged views on Ukraine’s efforts toward a just and sustainable peace. They noted the need to continue building on the success of the recent Summit on Peace in Ukraine in Lucerne, Switzerland, on June 15 to 16, 2024, including Canada’s commitment to host a Ministerial event on Working Group Four to discuss the return of prisoners of war, unlawfully detained civilians, and illegally deported children.
The leaders discussed progress that has been made to provide critical assistance to Ukraine, including at this year’s NATO Summit. They also noted Ukraine’s progress as it continues on its path toward Euro-Atlantic integration and NATO membership.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Zelenskyy reaffirmed their intention to remain in close and regular contact.