Canada and EU Pledge Strong Support for Ukraine in Fight Against Russia
The leaders of Canada and the European Union have emphasized their unwavering support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. In addition, they have pledged to enhance cooperation on climate initiatives. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau welcomed European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Charles Michel at a summit held in St. John’s, Canada’s easternmost city.
During the summit, both sides issued a joint statement affirming their commitment to stand with Ukraine for as long as necessary. They have vowed to address Ukraine’s immediate military and defense requirements and ensure its long-term security commitments. As part of this commitment, Canada announced the donation of 11,000 assault rifles and nine million rounds of ammunition to Ukraine. Since the start of the conflict in February 2022, Canada has already pledged C$2.4 billion (HK$13.7 billion) in military assistance to the country.
While the United States remains Ukraine’s biggest military supporter, additional funding has been hindered due to political deadlock in Congress. In contrast, Canada has been a consistent backer of Ukraine even before the war began. Von der Leyen commended Canada for its training programs that have bolstered the pro-Western Ukrainian military and played a crucial role in combatting the conflict. The EU has also contributed significantly by training 30,000 Ukrainian troops, with a goal of reaching 40,000. Additionally, the bloc intends to disclose its plans for seized Russian assets soon.
Furthermore, the European leaders expressed interest in Canada’s abundant mineral resources, particularly those used in electric vehicle batteries. Von der Leyen invited Canada to join a critical raw material club that the EU plans to launch at the upcoming COP28 summit in the United Arab Emirates. She highlighted Canada as the sole Western Hemisphere country possessing all the necessary raw materials for lithium batteries.
This news signifies the resolute support from Canada and the EU for Ukraine’s fight against Russia. The commitment to addressing Ukraine’s military needs and ensuring long-term security demonstrates solidarity and a shared goal of upholding Ukraine’s sovereignty. The donation of assault rifles and ammunition from Canada, along with substantial military aid, will provide crucial support to Ukraine’s armed forces. Meanwhile, the EU’s training programs and intention to outline plans for seized assets illustrate its continued dedication to assisting Ukraine in various ways.
Moreover, the emphasis on climate efforts indicates the global importance of addressing environmental challenges. The EU’s invitation for Canada to join the critical raw material club underscores the mutual benefits of cooperation in the development and use of essential resources for electric vehicle batteries. By further enhancing their collaboration on climate issues, Canada and the EU demonstrate their commitment to sustainable development and a greener future.
In conclusion, the summit between Canada and the EU solidifies their backing for Ukraine while emphasizing the need for enhanced coordination on climate initiatives. The joint statement reaffirms the unwavering support for Ukraine’s fight against Russia, promising to address immediate military needs and ensure long-term security commitments. Canada’s donation of assault rifles and ammunition, along with its substantial military aid, aims to fortify Ukraine’s armed forces. The EU’s training programs for Ukrainian troops and plans for seized Russian assets signify their ongoing commitment to assist Ukraine. Furthermore, the shared interest in climate efforts highlights the significance of sustainable development and cooperation in addressing environmental challenges.
