‘Many contingency plans’: Trudeau won’t commit to moves amid Ukraine-Russia conflict
Posted January 24, 2022 9:34 am.
Last Updated January 24, 2022 12:40 pm.
Canada could soon be announcing more help for Ukraine, as tensions continue to grow at the border and the potential for armed conflict with Russia rises.
The U.S. and other allies are pulling the families of diplomats out of Ukraine amid the threat of war in the region. However, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wouldn’t say Monday if Canada is doing the same.
“There are many contingency plans in place. The safety of Canadian diplomats and their families is, of course, paramount, and we will continue to be there for Ukraine and ensure the safety of Canadians and Ukrainians,” the prime minister said.
“We are extremely concerned about the Russian aggression and the ongoing threat of further invasion into Ukraine. That is why we’ve worked with our diplomats, our military in place and around the world to ensure that we’re doing everything we can, whatever eventuality comes up.”
NATO is beefing up its presence in the region, deploying more warships and fighter jets. Meanwhile, the U.S. is considering sending thousands of troops as a way to deter any Russian aggressions or any possible invasions.
Trudeau would not comment on whether Canada would follow suit, but added he does expect more announcements to be made soon.
“We will continue to work closely with the government of Ukraine to ensure they get the support they need, and I’m sure there will be more announcements to come,” he said.
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There are already 200 Canadian troops on the ground, helping train the Ukrainian military. Previously, Trudeau would not confirm reports from The Star that Canada would be sending weapons and providing intelligence and cyber security assistance to Ukraine, nor that the country’s training mission with the Ukrainian military would be extended.
The prime minister is beginning a virtual cabinet retreat Monday, during which the conflict is expected to be a key focus of discussions.
Canada has already offered Ukraine a $120-million loan amid the rising tensions.
“Russia is aiming to destabilize Ukraine, including economically. This loan will help support Ukraine’s economic resilience,” Trudeau said last week.
Ukraine’s president welcomed Canada’s decision, writing on Twitter that a “strong Ukraine is the key to European security.”
“Canada demonstrates once again the real devotion to the spirit of special partnership between our two countries,” Volodymyr Zelensky tweeted.
Welcome Canada’s decision to grant $120 mln to support Ukraine. Strong Ukraine is the key to European security. Canada demonstrates once again the real devotion to the spirit of special partnership between our two countries@JustinTrudeau ????
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) January 21, 2022
Zelensky has also met with Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly in recent weeks.
-With files from Melissa Duggan
