Canadian prime minister condemns Russian ‘barbarism� as he welcomes Zelenskyy to G7
Ottawa announces more sanctions on Russian entities
TRENTON, Canada
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney greeted Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the G7 summit on Tuesday by referring to a deadly attack on Kyiv as “barbarism.”
At least 14 people were killed in the attack Monday as the Ukraine president was somberly outfitted in all black, presumably in mourning.
As reporters gathered at Zelenskyy’s arrival in Kananaskis, Alberta, the two leaders stopped to make statements.
Carney said Canada condemned “in the strongest terms the latest outrage, barbarism by Russia,” in the Kyiv attack.
“This underscores the importance of standing in solidarity with Ukraine,” he said.
Speaking of solidarity, US President Donald Trump repeatedly stood alone amongst his G7 allies by praising Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Trump left the summit on Monday, saying he had to deal with the Israel-Iran conflict. But his departure also negated the US president’s need to greet Zelenskyy.
Monday night after Trump’s departure, Carney said Canada and the other G7 countries emphasized “maximum pressure” had to be exerted on Russia.
Carney said Canada would put new sanctions on Russian individuals as well as more than 40 entities who were helping Russia skirt sanctions. Also sanctioned were 200 “shadow fleets” -- vessels engaged in deceptive shipping practices to circumvent sanctions. He also announced an additional $2 billion in military aid for Ukraine.
For his part, Zelenskyy thanked Canada for the condolences for the Kyiv attack.
“It’s a big tragedy for us and we need support from our allies,” he said, “until Russia will be ready for the peace negotiations.”
Zelenskyy and Carney then left to attend a working breakfast with other leaders. The discussions were to be centered on a strong and sovereign Ukraine.
