The Trudeau government has announced that Canada will be sending an additional $25-million of non-lethal military equipment to Ukraine to assist amid the ongoing Russian invasion.
Minister of National Defence, Anita Anand, announced the news on Sunday morning, outlining that the aid would include things such as helmets, body armour, night-vision goggles and gas masks.
“This aid was requested by Ukraine and we are working as quickly as possible to get it there,” Anand said during a live press conference.
The Defence Minister also said that Canada has approved additional airlift support, facilitated by the Canadian Armed Forces. The intent of this airlift support is to be used by NATO and in support of the delivery of this aid.
Anand says that Canada is also working with Ukraine to help defend against cyber-attacks and maintain strong security over its networks.
While Canada continues to lend support to Ukraine amid the ongoing Russian invasion, Anand says that a combat mission — which would put Canadian troops on the ground — is not on the table at this time.
During the press conference, the Defence Minister outlined that Canada’s previously promised $7-million in lethal aid has been delivered to Ukraine in time for it to be effectively utilized.
Anand is hoping that Canada’s support helps to deter Russian military aggression.
“The world has undoubtedly become a more dangerous place. While these dangers can seem far away to Canadians, our insularity is eroding as geopolitical fractures, caused by the likes of these events cause chaos and uncertainty,” Anand said. “Through these tumultuous times, we must unite as a country and redouble our efforts to support our allies and trust our international partners.”
On Sunday, Canada also announced that it would be closing its airspace to Russian aircraft operators as well.
Graham Cox
