The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, alongside the Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, and the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship today issued the following statement:
"On the 34th anniversary of Ukraine's independence, we are inspired by the enduring spirit and strength of the Ukrainian people. Canada supports Ukraine as it defends its sovereignty, freedom and security against Russia's aggression. We reinforce our commitment to uphold the UN Charter and stand with Ukraine.
"We acknowledge the immense suffering endured by the people of Ukraine, including lives lost, families torn apart and homes destroyed. In the face of these hardships, Ukrainians have shown remarkable resilience and determination in defending their land, culture and people. Their pain is felt by everyone who values freedom and justice.
"Freedom is a shared value-not a solitary struggle. Canada has consistently provided strong support to Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, independence and reform efforts, contributing nearly $22 billion in assistance since 2022.
"We are working with international partners to strengthen security commitments to Ukraine. While hosting the G7 Summit, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced $2 billion in additional military assistance for Ukraine, as well as the disbursement of a $2.3-billion loan. We continue to work with our Allies and partners to coordinate and bolster our support through the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, including F-16 pilot training under the Air Force Capability Coalition. Canada announced the disbursement of a $200-million contribution through the World Bank at the 2025 Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome, Italy.
"The war has upended the lives of generations of Ukrainians, especially children. Thousands of children are reported to have been illegally deported or forcibly transferred by Russia. With Ukraine, Canada is co-chairing the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, because no child should be a pawn in war.
"Canada remains committed to supporting Ukrainians and their family members by providing a temporary safe haven as the war continues.
"Canada will continue its support to Ukraine and honor the more than 1.3 million Canadians of Ukrainian heritage who make extraordinary contributions to our country every day.
"Ukraine's security is integral to global security. Substantial and well-coordinated military aid to Ukraine remains a strategic priority. We will continue our comprehensive support to the Ukrainian society and the reconstruction of Ukraine. For as long as Russia continues its war of aggression against Ukraine, we - together with partners and allies - will continue to maintain and increase pressure on Russia's war economy.
"Ukrainians are showing the world what independence means: resilience, dignity and the right to live in peace. On Ukraine's Independence Day, we celebrate the courage and hope that Ukrainians bring to the world and we reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity."
Slava Ukraini!
