August 24, 2026 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, and the Honourable Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development), today issued the following statement:

“Today, on the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence, we join Ukrainians – including those in Canada and around the world- in commemorating a day that is both a celebration of sovereignty and a moment of reflection, remembrance and resolve.

“Ukraine’s flag flies today because generations of Ukrainians refused to surrender their right to freedom, national identity and culture.

“Since Russia’s illegal occupation and attempted annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its unprovoked full-scale invasion in 2022, this war continues to threaten the very independence we mark today. It has brought devastating consequences for civilians across Ukraine, including in temporarily occupied territories. Ukrainians continue to show extraordinary courage and determination in defence of their freedom, sovereignty and future.

“Ukraine’s independence is not an abstract principle – Ukrainians defend it every day. In the face of occupation, attempts to erase Ukrainian culture through Russification and efforts to rewrite Ukrainian history, Ukrainians continue to defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity while preserving their language, culture, history and identity.

“Today, we honour the memory of those who have lost their lives and all those who continue to choose freedom despite its immense cost.

“Canada has stood with Ukraine at every stage of this struggle. As the first Western country to recognize Ukraine’s independence in 1991, Canada remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine and its people.

“Since 2022, Canada has committed more than $25.5 billion in multifaceted support, including military, financial, humanitarian, development, security and stabilization assistance. This support helps Ukraine defend itself today while laying the foundations for a secure, prosperous and democratic future.

“Through our development and humanitarian assistance, we are helping restore critical services, strengthen energy resilience, support economic recovery and promote effective governance and strong public institutions.

“Ukraine’s security is inseparable from Euro-Atlantic and global security. In February 2026, Canada extended Operation UNIFIER until 2029 and announced more than $2 billion in additional military assistance to Ukraine. Together with our allies and partners, we continue to support the training of Ukrainian forces and other Ukraine Defence Contact Group initiatives.

“Russia’s war against Ukraine is not only about territory. It is also about people. Russia has forcibly transferred and unlawfully deported thousands of Ukrainian children, tearing them from their families, communities and culture. Ukrainian prisoners of war and unlawfully detained civilians continue to face cruel treatment, including acts that could amount to torture. The return of these Ukrainians to their homes, families and communities is a humanitarian imperative and essential to any lasting peace. As co-chair of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, Canada continues to work with Ukraine and international partners to support these efforts.  In September, Canada, together with Ukraine and Norway, will be hosting Pathways to Peace: Second International Conference on Returning Ukrainian Children, Detained Civilians, and Prisoners of War in Toronto.

“Standing with Ukraine means pressing Russia to end its war, giving Ukraine the resources it needs to defend itself and meet urgent needs today, and investing in its long-term recovery and success. It means working with Allies and partners toward a just and lasting peace.

“Today, on Ukraine’s Independence Day, and every day, Canada stands with Ukraine and its people.

“Slava Ukraini!”