During a visit to Calgary by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney committed to enhancing Ukraine’s air defense and drone capabilities. This commitment includes a financial aid package of C$350 million (US$253 million) through a US-led initiative designed to supply Ukraine with military hardware, training, and other forms of defense support. The announcement comes in the wake of escalating missile and drone attacks by Russia on Ukraine.
Canada is also pledging C$450 million in loan guarantees aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. These funds will be directed toward repairing damaged facilities, increasing energy storage, and enhancing electricity supplies to critical services such as hospitals. This financial support is part of Canada’s broader strategy to assist Ukraine in maintaining its essential services amid ongoing conflict.
Additionally, Carney and Zelenskyy formalized a long-term agreement to pursue a “hundred-year partnership,” which will span across sectors like defense, critical minerals, and energy. This partnership aims to foster deeper cooperation between the two nations in these key areas. As part of its commitment to Ukraine, Canada also announced that it will allocate 30% of its new domestic drone production to support Ukrainian efforts. Zelenskyy highlighted that these drones will play a critical role on the battlefield, aiding Ukrainian forces and safeguarding civilians.
Looking ahead, Zelenskyy is scheduled to meet with US President Donald Trump later this month in New York, with the meeting potentially taking place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. This meeting is part of ongoing efforts to revive peace negotiations aimed at bringing an end to the ongoing war.