The federal government is giving Ukraine an additional $440 million in military assistance, adding to Canada’s commitment of $19.5 billion since February 2022.
Defence Minister Bill Blair announced the military aid on Jan. 9 during the 25th Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) meeting at Ramstein Air Base in Germany. The UDCG, a U.S.-led coalition of 57 countries and the European Union, coordinates military support to Ukraine in response to Russia’s 2022 invasion. This latest contribution will provide ammunition, drones, and winter gear to support Ukraine’s defence.
Calling ammunition one of Ukraine’s “highest priorities,” the National Defence Department said nearly half ($200 million) of the $440 million will support Czechia’s initiative to purchase and deliver large-calibre ammunition. This builds on Canada’s $53 million contribution to the initiative last year. Another $50 million will go toward purchasing additional ammunition from Canadian industry, according to the press release….