Canada: Ukrainian President Mr. Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Russia is “committing genocide” and the invasion “must not go unpunished” during his speech on the floor of Canada’s Parliament.
“Moscow, now, as always, is bent on controlling Ukraine and makes use of all available means to do that, including genocide,” Mr. Zelenskyy told a packed House of Commons in Ottawa as he continues to rally support for his war-torn country.
“It is genocide, what Russian occupiers are doing to Ukraine. And when we want to win, when we call on the world to support us, it is not just about an ordinary conflict. It is about saving the lives of millions of people,” the Ukrainian leader stated.
Mr. Zelenskyy’s fiery comments mark his latest appeal to world leaders as he completes a whirlwind tour of North America, which began earlier this week with an appearance at the United Nations in New York.
The Ukrainian President received a warm reception in Canada and had the rare honour of delivering a second address before Parliament. Mr. Zelenskyy had previously spoken to the legislature via video in March 2022, just weeks after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of his country. Only a few world leaders have had the opportunity to speak twice before Canada’s Parliament.
The Canadian Prime Minister, Mr. Justin Trudeau, introduced Mr. Zelenskyy with remarks that included a pledge for increased aid to Ukraine. “Canada has provided nearly $6 billion in military, financial, and humanitarian support to Ukraine since Putin began his war of aggression,” Mr. Trudeau commented.
“We are making a longer-term, multiyear commitment that provides predictable, steady support to Ukraine. It will include $480 million over three years for 50 armoured vehicles, including medical evacuation vehicles that will be built by Canadian workers in London, Ontario,” the Canadian PM further remarked.
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