Prime Minister Mark Carney has pledged $270 million to support Ukraine in bolstering its military capabilities against Russia’s ongoing invasion. The announcement was made during Carney’s visit to Armenia for the European Political Community summit, where global leaders are convening to discuss political, security, and infrastructure cooperation.
The funding will be used to procure essential items from a NATO-approved list, bringing Canada’s total financial aid to Ukraine to $25.8 billion. Carney emphasized that this contribution is part of a broader effort to assist Ukraine in its conflict and enhance its strategic position.
Expressing solidarity with Ukraine, Carney assured that “all of Canada” stands behind the country. He highlighted that the latest financial support aims to reinforce Ukraine’s defense and pave the way for peace and prosperity in the region.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the unwavering moral and financial support from Canada. Notably, Canada is the first non-European nation to participate in the summit, which was established following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Carney stressed the importance of embracing the current global landscape and fostering partnerships with Europe amid significant geopolitical shifts. He underscored the need to confront challenges proactively rather than through a lens of nostalgia, emphasizing the potential for collaboration and progress.
During his visit, Carney engaged in discussions with European leaders, emphasizing the need for a pragmatic approach to international affairs. He reiterated his belief that the rebuilding of the international order will originate from Europe, highlighting the region’s pivotal role in shaping the future.
Furthermore, Carney held meetings with key European officials, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa, to explore avenues for deeper cooperation in critical sectors such as supply chains, energy, and technology.
Carney’s interactions also extended to Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, reflecting Canada’s commitment to fostering strong relationships and addressing pressing global challenges.