Zelensky Thanks Canada, Says Its Aid Helped Save Lives

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has  offered a heartfelt thanks to Canada for its assistance in the war against Russia, saying Ottawa’s aid had helped save thousands of lives.

Zelenskiy made his remarks in a speech to the Parliament in Canada, where the Liberal Government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been one of the most vocal supporters of Ukraine’s defense against the Russian invasion of February 2022.

Since the beginning of 2022, Canada has committed over C$8 billion ($5.9 billion) in aid to Ukraine, including over C$1.8 billion in military assistance.

“Canadian support for Ukraine with weapons and equipment has allowed us to save thousands of lives,” said Zelenskiy, making his first visit to Canada since the start of the war.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Canada would be offering an extra C$650 million in military aid over three years to supply Ukraine with 50 armored vehicles.

Ottawa would also send trainers to help Ukrainian pilots on western F-16 fighter jets.

Canada will provide what Trudeau called substantial macro economic support in 2024, but he gave no details.

“Canada’s support for Ukraine is unequivocal and always will be,” he told a joint news conference.

“Ukraine is standing up and fighting and dying for the rules based order that protects all of us. It is in Canadians’ interests to ensure that Ukraine wins this war.”

REUTERS