Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will be visiting Kyiv, Ukraine, as the country marks the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that Trudeau will be attending a summit on peace and security for Ukraine, along with other foreign leaders. This visit will likely be Trudeau’s last as Canada’s prime minister, as he has announced that he will step down after a new Liberal leader is chosen on March 9. Zelenskyy also mentioned that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and delegates from Nordic and Baltic countries will be attending the summit in person, with two dozen leaders joining virtually.
The US administration is currently pushing for an agreement to end the war in Ukraine. Trump administration officials have held talks with Russia without Ukraine at the table and are suggesting that Moscow may be allowed to keep some of the territories it has occupied since its invasion in 2014. The US has also indicated acceptance of Russia’s stance that Ukraine should never join NATO. Additionally, Ukraine is being pressured to give access to critical minerals in exchange for American military aid. Zelenskyy mentioned that progress is being made on a deal with the US regarding minerals and that he would be willing to give up the presidency if it would bring lasting peace for Ukraine under NATO security. Both Trump and Putin have called for elections in Ukraine, which have been suspended since the martial law was imposed in response to Russia’s invasion in 2022.
Ukrainian Consul General Oleh Nikolenko expressed concerns about the rhetoric coming from the US, which he views as counterproductive and potentially inviting more aggression from Russia. He highlighted that Russia had launched a significant number of strike drones into Ukraine recently, with ongoing missile attacks. Ukrainian negotiators are seeking security guarantees from the US as part of any economic or minerals deal. Trump has called on Europe to take the lead on ensuring security for Ukraine, a move that European leaders have stated they are willing to do, and Ukrainians are welcoming. Nikolenko emphasized that Canada should also play a leadership role at this critical time, urging the country to step up its support, particularly in areas such as military aid, humanitarian assistance, demining, and training of Ukrainian forces.
Trudeau has previously expressed the need for Ukraine to be brought to the negotiating table quickly and has been in discussions with various world leaders on the situation in Ukraine. Canada is a significant donor to Ukraine, ranking fifth in overall allocations, including military, financial, and humanitarian contributions. However, there have been criticisms of delays in providing equipment sought by Ukraine. Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly has stated that Canada wants to be involved in protecting Ukraine after the war ends, though specifics have not been outlined. Other world leaders, such as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, have expressed readiness to deploy troops to Ukraine to help uphold a ceasefire, if one is achieved. Ukrainians in Canada are reportedly feeling exhaustion and anger as the war persists, with a desire for a just peace to end the conflict.
The geopolitical landscape surrounding Ukraine continues to evolve, with ongoing talks and negotiations between various countries. The US, Russia, and Ukraine are engaged in discussions that could potentially affect the future of the war-torn country. As disagreements and tensions persist, there is increasing pressure on world leaders, including Trudeau, to take decisive action and provide essential support to Ukraine. The upcoming summit in Kyiv will be a critical opportunity for leaders to discuss Ukraine’s strategy and security framework, with a focus on ensuring lasting peace and stability in the region. The role of Canada, along with other key allies, in supporting Ukraine during this challenging time will be crucial in determining the outcome of the conflict and the future of the country.
