‘With you every step of the way’: Canadian PM Mark Carney arrives in Ukraine for independence day celebrations; pledges ‘unwavering’ support

Canadian prime minister Mark Carney arrived in Kyiv on Sunday to join Ukraine’s Independence Day celebrations, marking the occasion with a series of meetings and events as a “special guest.” “On this Ukrainian Independence Day, and at this critical moment in their nation’s history, Canada is stepping up our support and our efforts towards a just and lasting peace for Ukraine,” Carney said through a post on X as he landed in Kyiv.Carney reiterated his “unwavering” support for the Ukrainian, pledging solidarity amid fading prospects for a summit between the Russian and Ukrainian presidents. “Canada’s support for Ukraine is unwavering and we are with you every step of the way, in your fight to defend your sovereignty, and to realize your dreams for your country,” Carney said. Ukraine’s 34th Independence Day will also be marked with events across Canada on Sunday. “On this special day, Ukraine’s Independence Day, it is especially important for us to feel the support of our friends. And Canada has always stood by us,” Andriy Yermak, the head of the office of the Ukrainian president said through a post on Telegram. Carney’s unannounced trip forms part of a wider tour that includes visits to Poland, Germany, and Latvia, with a focus on ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Canada’s military has trained thousands of Ukrainian soldiers, and Carney is set to meet Canadian troops in Warsaw and Riga, where Canada commands a multinational Nato brigade, reports The Globe and Mail. Meanwhile, Nato secretary general Mark Rutte also visited Kyiv on Friday and told a press conference with Zelenskyy that post-war guarantees would include strengthening Ukraine’s military and deterrence commitments from the US and allies, including Canada, to prevent future Russian aggression.Regarding ongoing support for Ukraine, Canada pledged an additional $2 billion in defence aid at the recent G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta. It has also signed a strategic defence agreement with the European Union to enable joint procurement and production with allies, including Ukraine, as cited by CBC News. At a news conference in Ottawa on Friday, Carney said Canada could play a role in providing security guarantees for Ukraine if an agreement is reached to end the war. He noted that the country is a core member of the “coalition of the willing” an alliance of about 30 countries supporting Ukraine. “It’s a fluid situation. It’s a delicate situation,” Carney said, explaining that discussions cover weapons, training, and land, air, and sea support. He added that Canada “might play” a role within that broader group. “Canada has the potential to have an important role. So, we’re very engaged in these sets of issues,” he said, noting that he also discussed the matter in a phone call this week with US President Donald Trump, as per the Globe and Mail.