During Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to Calgary, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney committed to enhancing Ukraine’s air defense and drone capabilities. This pledge includes C$350 million (US$253 million) in support, aligning with a US-led initiative to deliver military equipment, training, and other defense aid to Ukraine. The commitment comes amid increased Russian missile and drone assaults on Ukraine.
In addition to the military support, Canada is extending C$450 million in loan guarantees aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. This financial assistance is intended to facilitate repairs to damaged facilities, expand energy storage, and improve electricity supply to crucial services like hospitals.
Highlighting long-term collaboration, Carney and Zelenskyy signed an agreement to pursue a “hundred-year partnership” encompassing defense, critical minerals, energy, and other cooperative areas. As part of this collaboration, Canada announced that 30% of its new domestic drone production would be allocated to Ukraine, with Zelenskyy noting these drones will be utilized on the battlefield to aid Ukrainian forces and safeguard civilians.
Zelenskyy is also slated to meet with US President Donald Trump in New York later this month, potentially coinciding with the United Nations General Assembly. This meeting is part of ongoing efforts to reinvigorate negotiations aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict.