Canada sending another $50 million in specialized equipment to Ukraine: Trudeau

Canada is sending another $50 million in specialized equipment to help Ukraine defend itself against the Russian invasion, the prime minister has announced.

“We have obtained a number of specialized equipment, including cameras used in drones that a Canadian company makes that we will be able to start sending in the coming days,” Justin Trudeau said from Berlin Wednesday.

Trudeau says he spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy by phone to inform him of the additional aid.

He says Zelenskyy also accepted an invitation to address Canada’s parliament. It’s not yet clear what date that address will be given.

Trudeau says there have been some logistical challenges getting promised weapons and military equipment into Ukraine but they are not insurmountable.

Canada previously said it was shipping $25-million worth of non-lethal equipment, such as body vests and helmets, including more than $10 million in weapons such as machine-guns, rocket launchers, and hand grenades.

Related articles:

• Canada sending $25-million worth of additional military equipment to Ukraine

• Trudeau announces extension of Canada’s NATO mission in Baltics

• Canada to subject Russia to 35% tariffs, provide safe haven for Ukrainians

The discussion with Zelenskyy took place by phone Wednesday while Trudeau was in Berlin for meetings with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, where the Ukrainian situation was key on the agenda.

Trudeau says he and Scholz discussed ways in which Canadian oil and gas could help offset the concerns as Europe cuts itself off from Russian energy.

“Ways where we can partner, not just in the short and medium term on energy supplies, but also staying focused every step of the way on that transition towards renewables,” the prime minister said.