Canadians ‘Stand with Ukraine’ on one-year anniversary of Russian invasion
Posted Feb 24, 2023 03:00:00 PM.
From coast to coast, thousands of Canadians are expected to take part today in a series of rallies in support of Ukraine on the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion.
Spearheaded by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, some 40 “Stand With Ukraine” events are planned for major cities across the country, from St.John's, Newfoundland to Whitehorse, Yukon. The events are scheduled for various times throughout the day, however, the bulk of them will be candlelight vigils in the early evening.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will make an appearance in Toronto and speak to the media about the grim anniversary this afternoon, Feb. 24, flanked by Defence Minister Anita Anand. Trudeau will also take part in a vigil later in the day for the victims of the war.
The prime minister said Canada's support for Ukraine will not wither. He noted that the people of Ukraine are not just fighting for themselves, but for the ideals and rules that underpin all democracies.
On Friday, Feb. 24, the Government of Canada announced an additional contribution of $32 million to support Ukraine's war efforts, including $7.5 million for demining, $12 million to counter chemical, biological and nuclear threats, and $13 million for accountability efforts, including addressing conflict-related sexual violence.
“Today, the world marks a devastating milestone of 1 year since Russia’s illegal and unjustifiable full-scale invasion of Ukraine,” stated Minister of Foreign Affairs Mélanie Joly in a media release. “Canada’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty is unwavering. We will not stand down until Russia is held accountable for its crimes.”
The year-long conflict has taken a deadly toll on the Ukrainian population, with tens of thousands of civilians killed and millions more displaced.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy Friday morning issued a defiant video address, recalling the terror unleashed a year ago by the Russian assault and vowing to push for victory in 2023.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 24, 2023.
With files from CityNews Ottawa
