Canada Signs Declaration of Intent With Ukraine

Canada today signed a Declaration of Intent with Ukraine to explore opportunities to conduct joint military training and capacity building in response to Russia’s aggression toward Ukraine.

The agreement was signed by Defence Minister Rob Nicholson at the conclusion of a visit to Kyiv, Ukraine, where he affirmed Canada’s steadfast friendship and strong bilateral relations, and officially announced Canada’s intention to collaborate on current and future security concerns, and towards developing broader military defence cooperation.

“Canada stands firm in its commitment to the people of Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. Through their important contributions to NATO’s Assurance Measures our men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces are also effectively responding to Russia’s illegal and illegitimate actions in Ukraine,” said Nicholson.

Today’s Declaration of Intent seeks to explore ways in which to build upon Canada’s past training efforts, particularly through the provision of general support training related to military police, medical and personal protective measures.

In August, Canada donated non-lethal military supplies, including a range of targeted protection, medical and logistical equipment such as helmets, ballistic eyewear, protective vests, first aid kits, tents and sleeping bags.

In November, Canada announced further military gear including tactical communications systems, explosive ordinance disposal equipment, tactical medical kits, night visual goggles and winterized kits to expand the capabilities of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

“Canada enjoys strong and enduring friendships with our allies in Central and Eastern Europe based on our shared values of freedom, international peace and security,” said Nicholson.

Canada is among the strongest international supporters of Ukraine’s efforts to restore stability and implement democratic and economic reforms. Together, with NATO allies, Canada continues to call on Russia to follow through on its Geneva commitments to de-escalate the crisis. Ukraine’s sovereign territory must be respected and the Ukrainian people must be free to determine their own future.

Canada will continue to play a leading role in the Western response to the situation in Ukraine as well as continue its military training and cooperation, building upon the success of current efforts contributing toward Ukraine self-determination and security.

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