Canada Commits $5 Billion in Seized Russian Assets to Aid Ukraine, Boosts Military and Energy Support

Canada will allocate $5 billion in aid to Ukraine, utilizing funds seized from Russian assets, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Monday at a peace and security summit in Kyiv. The pledge reinforces Canada’s commitment to supporting Ukraine as it continues to defend its sovereignty against Russia’s invasion.

Trudeau joined a dozen world leaders in the Ukrainian capital to mark the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. The summit showcased unwavering international support for Ukraine’s goal of ending the conflict on its own terms while preserving its territorial integrity.

“This is not a conflict Ukraine wanted, provoked, or asked for in any way,” Trudeau emphasized. “This is a war started for one reason and one reason only: Russia’s desire to erase Ukrainian history and expand their empire.”

Beyond financial aid, Canada will supply 25 additional light armoured vehicles (LAV III) and two armoured combat-support vehicles to bolster Ukrainian defence efforts. Ukrainian troops will receive training on these vehicles in Germany shortly, Trudeau confirmed.

The Canadian government is also focused on enhancing Ukraine’s energy security amid ongoing Russian attacks on its power grid. A new grant will be provided to help stabilize energy infrastructure and support Ukrainian resilience during the harsh winter months.

In a further boost to Ukraine’s defence capabilities, Canada will deliver four F-16 flight simulators, complementing the fighter jet systems previously provided.

The $5 billion aid package marks the first allocation of revenues generated from frozen Russian assets. Ottawa has been advocating for European nations to take similar steps, urging them to either forfeit Russian funds held in frozen accounts or redirect the interest accrued since the start of the war.

“We must do everything in our power to enable Ukraine to secure a just and lasting peace, a peace that cannot be achieved without Ukrainians at the table,” Trudeau stated, reiterating the importance of Kyiv’s direct involvement in any peace negotiations.

While Trudeau refrained from addressing Ukraine’s potential NATO membership—a point of debate among summit participants—he reinforced the need for a diplomatic resolution that upholds international order and sovereignty.

His remarks come amid European concerns over the United States engaging in discussions with Moscow without Kyiv’s participation. As the chair of the G7 this year, Canada is expected to play a pivotal role in mediating these geopolitical dynamics.

This visit marks Trudeau’s fourth trip to Ukraine since 2022 and is likely his last as Prime Minister, with his Liberal party set to choose a new leader next month. His meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, highlighted by a warm handshake and a hug, underscored Canada’s steadfast support.

Heavy security surrounded the summit venue, with police stationed at every corner and access tightly controlled.

Trudeau concluded his address with a powerful call to action: “The moment to stop this war of aggression, the moment to defend democracy, the moment to stand for our shared values—is now. So let us seize it.”