Ottawa (Rajeev Sharma): Prime Minister Mark Carney participated in a high-level virtual meeting of the Coalition of the Willing on Thursday, reaffirming Canada’s steadfast commitment to Ukraine in the face of ongoing Russian aggression.
The meeting, convened to coordinate global support for Ukraine, was co-chaired by UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also joined the discussion, alongside senior American figures including Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal, and U.S. Special Envoy General Keith Kellogg.
During the meeting, the Coalition unanimously condemned Russia’s latest missile strikes on Ukraine and pledged continued military, financial, and diplomatic backing for Kyiv. Participants emphasized the urgency of exerting maximum pressure on the Kremlin through coordinated sanctions and strategic defense assistance.
Prime Minister Carney outlined Canada’s most recent contributions to Ukraine’s war effort and recovery:
- A new $2 billion military aid package, including critical equipment such as drones, ammunition, and armoured vehicles.
- A major sanctions initiative targeting Russia’s shadow fleet and fossil fuel revenues.
- A $2.3 billion loan disbursement aimed at rebuilding Ukraine’s shattered infrastructure and restoring key public services.
“Canada will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine — not only through our words, but through concrete and unwavering support,” Carney said. “The international community must remain united and resolute against Russia’s illegal war.”
The Coalition also discussed plans for Ukraine’s long-term security architecture, including the establishment of a permanent Coalition headquarters in Paris and the creation of a future coordination cell in Kyiv to prepare for a post-ceasefire stabilization force.
The meeting concluded with renewed pledges to support Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and democratic future, as well as calls for a “just and lasting peace” aligned with the principles of the UN Charter.
