Canada’s Support for Ukraine on Independence Day: A Defiant Stand for Freedom
On Ukraine’s Independence Day, Prime Minister Mark Carney of Canada joined Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska in a solemn ceremony at the memorial wall in Kyiv, laying wreaths to honor the sacrifices made for the nation’s freedom. In a powerful address, President Zelensky reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to fighting for its sovereignty, stating, "We need a just peace, where our future is determined solely by us." He emphasized that Ukraine is not merely a victim but a resilient fighter, insisting, "Ukraine has not yet won, but it has certainly not lost."
Zelensky’s remarks came on the heels of accusations from Moscow, which claimed that Ukraine launched drone attacks on Russian power and energy facilities. The Ukrainian government’s Centre for Countering Disinformation highlighted that the reported fire at a nuclear power plant in Russia’s Kursk region was a result of a drone being shot down. The centre accused Russia of spreading misinformation, asserting that their claims of targeted strikes are consistent with typical propaganda tactics. Fortunately, the fire was quickly contained, and radiation levels were reported to be normal, according to the plant’s press service.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) expressed awareness of the situation but stated it could not independently verify the reports. The agency reiterated its call for both Russia and Ukraine to exercise maximum restraint regarding nuclear facilities amid the ongoing conflict.
In a significant development, both Russia and Ukraine confirmed a prisoner swap involving 146 soldiers from each side. President Zelensky noted that among those returned were soldiers, border guards, and civilians, including journalist Dmytro Khilyuk, who had been captured in the early days of the war.
During the Independence Day celebrations in Kyiv, which marked the nation’s declaration of independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Prime Minister Carney reiterated Canada’s unwavering support for Ukraine. Standing alongside Zelensky at St. Sophia’s Cathedral, he declared, "Canada will always stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine." He announced that drones, ammunition, and armored vehicles, part of a $2 billion military aid package, would soon be delivered to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
US envoy Keith Kellogg was also present, receiving the Order of Merit from Zelensky during the ceremony. Kellogg assured Zelensky, "We’re going to make this work," reflecting the ongoing support from the United States.
Andriy Yermak, Zelensky’s chief of staff, emphasized the importance of international support on this significant day, thanking Canada for its steadfast friendship. Zelensky shared a heartfelt letter from King Charles of the United Kingdom, praising the indomitable spirit of the Ukrainian people and expressing hope for a just and lasting peace.
In recognition of Ukraine’s Independence Day, the UK government announced the display of Ukrainian flags above Downing Street and confirmed that British military training for Ukrainian soldiers would continue until at least the end of 2026, under the Operation Interflex program.
Norway also stepped up its support, pledging approximately 7 billion kroner (around £514 million or $693 million) for air defense systems, collaborating with Germany to enhance Ukraine’s military capabilities.
Furthermore, Ukraine and Sweden announced a partnership for joint defense production, with Sweden’s defense minister highlighting the initiative’s potential to strengthen both nations’ military readiness.
As tensions continue, Russia claimed its forces had seized two villages in the Donetsk region, although their advances have been met with significant resistance. The ongoing conflict, which escalated with Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, has prompted intense diplomatic efforts, including discussions between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin aimed at achieving peace.
Despite these talks, Zelensky has consistently called for an unconditional ceasefire, while Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that a meeting between the two leaders would occur only when an agenda was deemed ready, accusing Zelensky of rejecting potential negotiations.
As Ukraine stands firm on its path to independence, the support from Canada, the UK, and other allies remains crucial in its ongoing struggle for freedom.
