OTTAWA,
ON, Aug. 24, 2024 The Prime Minister,
Justin Trudeau, today issued the
following statement on Ukrainian Independence Day:
"On this day, in 1991, Ukraine
became a free, independent nation. Thirty-three years later
– in the face of brutality and craven aggression – Ukrainians
are standing resolute, valiantly defending their sovereignty.
"Canada was the first Western
country to recognize Ukraine's
independence. We recognized then what we reaffirm now – that
democracy, freedom, and the rule of law must always be upheld. That
despots attempting to redraw borders must not prevail. That
Ukrainians, and Ukrainians alone, have the right to choose their
own future.
"Every year, when Canada
celebrates its own independence, Canadians look to the Maple Leaf
as a symbol of hope and courage – of standing up for what is right.
In many ways, Ukrainians are fighting for the same values that the
Maple Leaf embodies. That's why Canada has been, and always will be, a friend
and partner to Ukraine.
"Since the start of the war, Canada has committed more than $19.5 billion in support to Ukraine. From armoured vehicles and artillery
ammunition, to training and winter supplies, we are playing our
part in preparing Ukrainians for the battlefield. We're working
with Allies to help Ukraine
rebuild and hold the Russian regime accountable. And we've helped
unlawfully deported Ukrainian children return to their rightful
homes – all part of our larger work to help Ukraine achieve a just and lasting peace.
"Over 1.3 million Ukrainian-Canadians call Canada home today – the second-largest
Ukrainian diaspora in the world. Some have helped our communities
succeed for decades and some have come to our country in the past
few years, greeted with warmth and kindness from Canadians across
the country.
"Ukraine's history can never be
rewritten. Its identity can never be erased. And the spirit of the
Ukrainian people cannot, and shall never, be broken.
"Ukraine's fight reminds us
that democracy is both important enough to fight for and strong
enough to win. As we mark this Ukrainian Independence Day,
Canada stands steadfast alongside
our Ukrainian friends.
"Slava Ukraini!"
This document is also available at https://pm.gc.ca
SOURCE Prime Minister's Office