Canada Announces New Military Aid and Sanctions Against Russia’s ‘Shadow Fleet’
Kyiv [Ukraine], February 26: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has reaffirmed Canada’s unwavering support for Ukraine, declaring that “Canada will always have Ukraine’s back” in its fight against Russian aggression. Speaking in Kyiv alongside President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Trudeau announced new military aid and sanctions against Russia’s shadow fleet, which has been accused of illegally exporting Russian oil despite Western sanctions.
Canada Stands Firm with Ukraine
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Trudeau emphasized that Ukraine’s struggle for lasting peace cannot be fought alone.
📢 Trudeau stated:
“The fight for lasting peace cannot be won alone. That’s why we’re here. President Zelenskyy and I spoke in Kyiv, and I told him that Canada will always have Ukraine’s back. I shared new military support from Canada to help Ukraine secure lasting peace and defend its sovereignty.”
Additionally, Trudeau condemned Russia’s continued evasion of sanctions, announcing new measures targeting Russian oil exports.
“In response to Russia’s efforts to escape accountability for their war, I announced Canada’s new sanctions against Russia’s shadow fleet: ships used to evade Western sanctions and keep illegally exporting Russian oil to the world.”
Zelenskyy Expresses Gratitude
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy extended his appreciation for Trudeau’s continued commitment, marking his fourth visit to Ukraine since the full-scale Russian invasion began in 2022.
💬 Zelenskyy stated:
“Canada continues to support Ukraine by providing military equipment and strengthening our energy security. Today, new assistance packages were announced: armored vehicles, the first transfers from the 5 billion CAD allocated to Ukraine from proceeds on frozen Russian assets, as well as a grant to support energy security and the restoration of civilian energy infrastructure following Russia’s massive attacks.”
Zelenskyy also thanked Trudeau for hosting the recent G7 leaders’ meeting, where global leaders discussed continued aid for Ukraine.
Key Announcements from Trudeau’s Visit
✅ New Military Assistance – Canada will supply armored vehicles to strengthen Ukraine’s defense.
✅ Sanctions on Russia’s ‘Shadow Fleet’ – Targeting ships evading Western sanctions to smuggle Russian oil.
✅ $5 Billion CAD Fund for Ukraine – Derived from proceeds on frozen Russian assets to bolster Ukraine’s economy and war efforts.
✅ Energy Security Grants – Funding to restore Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, heavily damaged by Russian attacks.
Canada’s Continued Commitment
Trudeau’s visit to Kyiv coincides with the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, a moment of global reflection on Ukraine’s resilience. His strong remarks and new aid packages signal that Canada remains steadfast in its commitment to Ukrainian sovereignty, military defense, and economic stability.
📌 “Ukrainians deserve to live in a strong democracy, free from Russian aggression – and Canada will stand side-by-side with them until that’s achieved.” – Justin Trudeau