Kananaskis, Jun. 17, (dpa/GNA) – Canada has pledged additional support to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in his fight against Russia, announcing new sanctions and billions in military aid during a bilateral meeting at the G7 summit in the Rocky Mountains.

Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled the package in Kananaskis, Alberta, where leaders of the Group of Seven gathered for a final day.

The latest sanctions target more than 200 ships in Russia’s so-called shadow fleet, which Moscow uses to circumvent existing sanctions. The military assistance includes drones and helicopters.

Zelensky thanked Carney for the continued support. “It is important for our soldiers to be strong on the battlefield, to remain strong until Russia is ready for peace talks,” he said. Ukraine, he added, is prepared for negotiations and an unconditional ceasefire, but pressure must be maintained on Moscow to make that possible.

Zelensky is attending the G7 summit as a guest, with leaders set to discuss Russia’s invasion at a working breakfast. However, hopes of convincing US President Donald Trump to adopt a firmer stance on Moscow have dimmed after Trump left the summit early due to the crisis in the Middle East.

GNA

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