During Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to Canada, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced additional funding for the war-torn country.

Prior to Zelenskyy’s address to Canadian parliament on Friday, Trudeau stated that the government will be allocating an additional $650 million over three years towards continued support for Ukraine in its battle against Russia.

The money will purchase 50 Canadian-manufactured armoured vehicles, F-16 trainers to allow Ukrainians to maximize the use of donated fighter jets and providing mental health care to those in need.

In his address to follow, Zelenskyy voiced his gratitude for Canada’s support, stating that the country is ‘always on the bright side of history’, and has always defended freedom and justice. He added that Moscow must lose once and for all, as what Russian occupiers are doing to Ukraine is genocide.

Trudeau also announced today, that the government is looking into how it can ensure that Russia is paying for the damage it is causing in Ukraine. He said there is potential for a group to be created which will determine whether or not frozen Russian central bank assets can be used to rebuild Ukraine. He says these assets are worth 2 -3 hundred billion dollars. He adds that Canada will continue to be as resourceful as it can, as a Russian victory would directly affect Canadian citizens in their daily lives, future opportunities, and grocery bills.

This evening, both leaders will travel to Toronto to meet with business leaders with an aim to strengthen private sector investment in the future of Ukraine.
Since 2022, Canada has committed over $8.9 billion in supports for Ukraine.