Ukraine and Canada have reached agreements totaling more than $2 billion, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced following his meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
More than $1 billion will be allocated to defense assistance for Ukraine. The new package will include missiles for Patriot air defense systems, ammunition for F-16 fighter jets, and the joint production of drones.
“This will primarily strengthen our air defenses — both our Patriots and our combat aircraft, which intercept Russia’s jet-powered Shahed drones,” Zelenskyy said.
Twenty-one Ukrainian pilots are also currently undergoing training in Canada. The president said that, together with training programs provided by other countries, this would significantly strengthen Ukraine’s combat aviation capabilities.
The two countries also agreed on a so-called Drone Deal and have already signed the first document. According to Zelenskyy, the agreement will help raise funds for Ukraine’s defense, while giving Canada access to technologies tested in modern warfare.
In addition, the two countries reached agreements in the energy sector aimed at strengthening Ukraine ahead of the winter and over the longer term.
Canada will also contribute $40 million to establish a fund supporting Ukrainian veterans and finance veterans’ programs.
