While in Rome, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held his first meeting with Prime Minister of Canada Mark Carney, during which they discussed the full and unconditional ceasefire, pressure on Russia, continued support for Ukraine, and Canada’s Presidency of the G7.
“We admire what you are doing. We admire your commitment to peace, which you have demonstrated again this week. And let me underscore that there can be no peace without the full support and participation of Ukraine – and that you have our absolute support,” said the Prime Minister of Canada.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude to Canada and the Canadian people for their unwavering support of Ukraine since the very beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
The President emphasized that this week there was a real opportunity to take an important step toward ending the war – a ceasefire could have been reached if the meeting between Ukraine and Russia in Türkiye had taken place at the highest level.
“We were truly expecting Putin, but he didn’t come. We believe he is afraid of direct bilateral talks. Anyway, I think the decision on the exchange of prisoners of war is very important. One thousand people – it’s a lot. And I hope we will get this result,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted.
The Head of State gave a brief update on the talks in Istanbul and stressed the importance of coordinating joint efforts with partners.
“We must increase the pressure on Russia, on Putin, to truly achieve peace as soon as possible. And, of course, an unconditional ceasefire is essential. That’s why pressure is needed – more pressure, more sanctions. We are grateful to you for your sanctions packages, as well as to the European leaders and, of course, to the United States of America,” the President stated.
The Head of State informed Prime Minister Carney about Russian missile and drone strikes on civilians and noted that Ukraine urgently needs enhanced air defense to protect lives.
Particular attention was given to Canada’s priorities as G7 President. Ukraine is counting on robust additional sanctions – especially secondary sanctions – targeting the banking and energy sectors, as well as Russia’s shadow tanker fleet. It is also critical that continued support for Ukraine, the achievement of a just peace, and the guarantee of security remain on the G7’s agenda.
The two leaders also discussed defense, energy, and economic cooperation, potential joint production projects, and Canada’s participation in Ukraine’s reconstruction.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy invited Mark Carney to visit Ukraine, while Mark Carney confirmed the invitation for the Head of State to take part in the G7 Summit in June.
