Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is visiting Canada to seek additional military support for Ukraine, with air defence and preparations for the coming winter among the key priorities of his meetings with Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Zelenskyy and First Lady Olena Zelenska are in Canada from September 9 to 11 for meetings and events in Calgary, Toronto and North Bay. Zelenskyy is also scheduled to address Canadian Cabinet members during a Cabinet Planning Forum in Banff.
According to Zelenskyy, strengthening Ukraine’s air-defence capabilities is a top priority as Russian missile and drone attacks continue to threaten Ukrainian cities and critical infrastructure. He is also seeking support to help Ukraine protect its energy system ahead of another difficult winter.
The Ukrainian president’s visit comes as Kyiv continues to face heavy Russian aerial attacks and seeks stronger international backing for its defence. Recent discussions with U.S. envoys in Kyiv have also focused on air-defence supplies and energy support as diplomatic efforts to end the war continue.
Prime Minister Carney has reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defence, recovery and reconstruction. Ottawa says Zelenskyy’s visit will focus on defence, economic and energy cooperation, as well as the humanitarian consequences of Russia’s war.
Canada has already committed C$2.8 billion in military support to Ukraine for 2026. Earlier this year, Carney announced C$475 million for ammunition, nearly C$400 million to build 35 Canadian-made armoured vehicles and C$50 million for critical technology and engineering equipment. Canada has also extended Operation UNIFIER, its training and capacity-building mission for Ukraine, through 2029.
Zelenskyy’s Canadian visit also comes at a critical point in international efforts to find a negotiated end to the Russia-Ukraine war. While U.S.-led diplomatic contacts with Moscow and Kyiv have resumed, major disagreements remain, including over territory and security guarantees.
For Ukraine, securing sufficient air defence and energy assistance before winter is particularly urgent. Zelenskyy has been pressing allies for additional support as Russia continues to target infrastructure and civilian areas.
The visit underscores the close relationship between Canada and Ukraine and Ottawa’s continuing role in supporting Kyiv as the war enters another challenging phase.
Swifteradio.com
