Statement on the situation in Ukraine

November 9, 2017 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:

“Our government has been unwavering in its support for the people of Ukraine and Ukraine's territorial integrity. We condemn Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea, the ongoing violence and ongoing support to insurgents in eastern Ukraine.

"Around the world Canada has been leading conversations with a number of countries about the viability and utility of peacekeeping and policing in Ukraine. The Prime Minister has raised the issue with the President of Ukraine and with the Chancellor of Germany.

"I have personally explored the feasibility and prospects of such a mission with the President and the Prime Minister of Ukraine, with the US Secretary of State, with US Special Envoy Kurt Volker, and with the UN Secretary General last week. In recent weeks, I have spoken to several European governments and touched on this important issue with all of them.

"Our government has been at the heart of international efforts to support Ukraine and we are working hard to ensure any peacekeeping effort guarantees Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Canada-led multinational battlegroup in Latvia, as part of NATO’s enhanced Forward Presence, is an example of Canada’s leadership and ongoing commitment to regional security.

"The people of Ukraine can count on the continued and unwavering friendship and support of Canada.”

Contacts

Adam Austen
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
Adam.Austen@international.gc.ca

Media Relations Office
Global Affairs Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
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