Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in Canada for his first visit in nearly a year amid ongoing deadly airstrikes affecting his country. Zelenskyy, accompanied by his wife Olena Zelenska, will participate in various events in Calgary, Toronto, and North Bay from Wednesday to Friday as announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Upon his arrival in Calgary on Wednesday night, Zelenskyy was greeted by officials, including Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand, before being escorted to his destination in a black SUV. Carney is scheduled to meet with Zelenskyy on Thursday in Calgary, followed by Zelenskyy addressing a cabinet meeting in Banff, Alta.
Carney emphasized that the visit highlights Canada’s ongoing support for Ukraine and reinforces the commitment to achieving a just and enduring peace. The discussions during the visit will concentrate on mutual priorities such as enhancing defense, economic, and energy collaborations between Canada and Ukraine, while also acknowledging the human toll of Russia’s aggressive actions against Ukraine.
Zelenskyy’s recent social media post confirmed his travel plans to Canada, reminiscing about his last visit in December, which included meetings with Carney in Halifax before proceeding to the U.S. for discussions on resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Carney’s inaugural visit to Kyiv in August last year underscored Canada’s backing for Ukraine, including the announcement of an additional $2 billion in military assistance.
A flight delay incident occurred on Tuesday due to drone activity in Moldova, affecting Zelenskyy’s journey to Norway. Moldovan authorities closed the airspace following a drone incursion, causing delays in several departures, including Zelenskyy’s flight. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy’s visit coincides with Ukraine grappling with severe airstrikes and appealing for increased air defense aid, while European leaders express concerns about Russia’s expanding military actions.
Prior to his visit to Canada, Zelenskyy criticized the international community for its response to Russia’s escalating attacks on Ukrainian civilians. Carney also conveyed a straightforward message to Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the ongoing conflict, emphasizing the urgency for Russia to withdraw from Ukraine and end the devastating war.
Overall, Zelenskyy’s visit to Canada symbolizes the strong bond between the two nations and their collective efforts towards promoting peace and security in the region.
