Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visited Kyiv on Saturday to show Canada's support and announced $500 million in new military aid for Ukraine during a meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. .Trudeau showed his support at a crucial moment for Zelenskyy, who has been seeking additional assistance from global leaders for weapons and aircraft to launch a delayed counterattack..“We’re really thankful for everything you did for us, for our people, refugees and for our army,” Zelenskyy told Trudeau. .Since the Russian invasion almost 16 months ago, Canada has promised over $8 billion in military, financial, and humanitarian aid to Ukraine..Accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, this is Trudeau’s and Freeland's second visit to the country since the war began. .Due to security concerns, a leader's trip is usually only confirmed after safely leaving a war zone. However, photos of Trudeau touring Irpin last May were leaked on Telegram, breaking the embargo on his secret Ukrainian trip..Canada reaffirmed its commitment to support Ukraine politically, financially, and militarily in a 13-point joint declaration following Trudeau's visit on Saturday. However, the statement was cautious in backing Kyiv's entry into NATO, stating that it supports Ukraine's membership as soon as the conditions permit. .“Canada supports Ukraine to become a NATO member as soon as conditions allow for it,” said the statement..Trudeau and Zelenskyy maintain regular communication and last met in person in Hiroshima, Japan, during the G7 summit..Trudeau's visit comes at a good time because it gives him a break from dealing with problems in Canada. The Trudeau government has been criticized for not handling the Chinese election interference investigation well and his “special rapporteur” David Johnston stepped down on Friday afternoon..READ MORE Johnston steps down in Chinese election interference investigation
