Canada has pledged a C$350 million military aid package to help Ukraine acquire air defence interceptors amid intensified Russian attacks, Prime Minister Mark Carney said.
Carney announced the package on Thursday after meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who was visiting Canada.
He said the agreement was aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s air defences, which have come under increasing pressure as Russia steps up its aerial attacks.
“As Russia escalates its barbaric aerial warfare, indiscriminately targeting civilian populations, Ukraine’s air defences are critical,” Carney told reporters in Calgary.
“Earlier today, Canada and Ukraine finalised an agreement to deliver critical air defence interceptors. This C$350 million equipment package will help protect Ukraine’s people, infrastructure and skies.”
Carney did not specify the type of interceptors to be supplied or when deliveries would begin.
The weapons will be provided through a US programme that enables third-party countries to rapidly purchase and supply weapons, including Patriot missiles, to Ukraine.
Zelenskiy thanked Canada for the support, describing the package as extremely important, particularly at the present time.
Canada has committed more than C$25.5 billion in total assistance to Ukraine since Russia invaded the country in February 2022, including C$8.5 billion in military aid.
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Carney also said Canada planned to expand its drone production capacity, with the aim of producing millions of drones within the next two years. He said one-third of the production would be destined for Ukraine.
Zelenskiy said Ukraine needed more technology and funding to increase its drone production capacity and defend against large-scale Russian attacks.
Under other agreements signed on Thursday, Canada will provide nearly C$435 million in new loan guarantees to the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to support Ukraine’s energy security, particularly during the winter.
Reuters
