Canada announced additional military aid for Ukrainian forces at the virtual Ukraine Defence Contract Group meeting Wednesday.
The latest tranche of assistance, some 34 million Canadian dollars ($25.5 million), will address “urgent priorities identified by Ukraine,” according to Canadian Defence Minister Anita Anand.
The package includes the regular delivery of satellite imaging to the Armed Forces of Ukraine, additional high-resolution drone cameras, and winter gear sourced from Canadian industry in partnership with the Canadian Commercial Corporation.
According to the defense minister, the new batch of assistance will add to Ukraine’s existing surveillance capabilities delivered by Canada earlier this year.
The winter equipment, which includes boots, clothing, gloves, and parkas, is expected to be delivered by the end of November. In addition to the package, Canada will extend its cooperation with the United Kingdom to train Ukrainian troops until the end of 2023.
“Canada is unwavering in its commitment to helping Ukraine defend itself against Putin’s illegal and unjustifiable invasion,” Anand said.
“Today’s announcement will further help Ukraine meet its urgent needs as it continues to make progress in reclaiming its territory. Canada’s military contributions, including training, equipment and transport have been integral in Ukraine’s counter offensive to-date and we will continue to stand with Ukraine, in the short and long term.”
The latest military aid follows $750 million in support announced by Canada in November, which doubled the country’s commitment in its April budget.
In February, Canada sent a military weapons package to Ukraine valued at $393 million.