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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky landed in Canada on Friday for his first visit since the Russian invasion, amid growing uncertainties about international aid for Kyiv. Canadian television broadcasted Prime Minister Justin Trudeau greeting President Zelensky and the first lady upon their arrival in Ottawa. Zelensky’s journey follows his visit to Washington, where he sought additional funding, though the outcome in the US Congress remains uncertain.(All Images/Bloomberg)
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Diplomatic tensions escalated when Zelensky criticised Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary for banning Ukrainian grain imports.
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Canada reaffirmed its commitment to Ukraine, with UN Ambassador Bob Rae stating that more assistance is necessary.
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While this marks President Zelensky’s first in-person visit since the conflict began, he had previously addressed Canadian parliament via video link.
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Volodymyr Zelenskiy, Ukraine’s president, center right, and Justin Trudeau, Canada’s prime minister, center left, greet supporters at an event in Toronto.
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In June, Trudeau reiterated his country’s dedication to supporting Ukraine. President Zelensky will also meet with business leaders in Toronto during his trip.
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On Thursday, Zelensky confronted weakening political support in the United States for his country’s demands for more arms.
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Canada has also trained more than 36,000 Ukrainian soldiers so far.
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Canada’s aid to Ukraine to date has included more than $1.3 billion in military aid, including Leopard 2 tanks, air defense and artillery systems, anti-tank weapons, drones and other equipment.
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Canadais home to the world’s second largest Ukrainian diaspora and Zelensky, in a speech to parliament, expressed thanks for the backing given to Kyiv since Russian troops poured over the Ukrainian borders in February 2022.
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Zelensky concluded his remarks with an Indigenous word taught to him by Canada’s governor general, Mary Simon, that roughly translates to: “Don’t give up, stay strong against all odds.”