Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to Join World Leaders in Kyiv as Ukraine Marks Anniversary of Invasion

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is set to join world leaders in Kyiv on Monday as Ukraine marks the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed during a Sunday evening news conference that Trudeau will meet with him in person, alongside 12 other foreign leaders attending a summit focused on peace and security for Ukraine. Trudeau, currently chairing the G7, is expected to discuss Ukraine’s relationship with the U.S. during the visit. This trip will mark Trudeau’s fourth visit to Ukraine since the war began and likely his last as Canada’s prime minister, as he has announced plans to step down after a new Liberal leader is chosen on March 9.

International Summit to Address Ukraine’s Security and Strategy

The summit in Kyiv will bring together European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, delegates from Nordic and Baltic countries, and over two dozen leaders joining virtually. Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of the summit, stating it provides an opportunity to discuss Ukraine’s strategy and framework for security guarantees. However, ongoing diplomacy is complicated by U.S. President Donald Trump’s push for an agreement to end the war, reportedly considering concessions such as allowing Russia to retain occupied territories. Additionally, the U.S. appears to align with Russia’s stance that Ukraine should not join NATO, further complicating negotiations.

Zelenskyy Open to Sacrifices for Peace, Criticizes U.S. Rhetoric

Zelenskyy expressed willingness to make significant sacrifices for peace, including giving up the presidency if it would secure a lasting peace under NATO’s security umbrella. When asked if he would trade his office for peace, he replied, “I can trade it for NATO.” Meanwhile, Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have called for elections in Ukraine, which Zelenskyy has dismissed as unrealistic under martial law. The Ukrainian leader also criticized Trump’s rhetoric, accusing him of spreading disinformation. In response, Ukrainian diplomat Oleh Nikolenko called the U.S. approach counterproductive, warning it could embolden Russia to escalate aggression.

Russia Escalates Attacks Amid Ongoing Diplomacy

As diplomatic efforts continues, Russia has intensified its attacks on Ukraine. Over the weekend, Moscow launched 267 strike drones, the largest single attack of the war, and fired ballistic missiles, including three on Sunday. Ukrainian negotiators are pushing for security guarantees from the U.S. as part of any economic or minerals deal. While Trump has urged Europe to take the lead in supporting Ukraine, Zelenskyy emphasized the need for Canada to “step up” its support, particularly in areas such as military aid, humanitarian efforts, and training for Ukrainian forces. Canada currently ranks fifth in overall support for Ukraine, but critics argue its military contributions lag behind its financial pledges.

Trudeau Calls for Swift Negotiations, Engages with International Leaders

Trudeau has advocated for Ukraine to be brought to the negotiating table quickly, a position he reiterated during a recent call with Zelenskyy. He also participated in a virtual meeting with European leaders convened by French President Emmanuel Macron to address Trump’s overtures to Russia. Shortly after, Trudeau spoke with Trump by phone, with Ukraine being a key topic of discussion. While Canada has been a significant donor to Ukraine, delays in delivering military equipment have drawn criticism. Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly indicated Canada’s interest in protecting Ukraine post-war but did not specify whether this could involve Canadian troops on the ground.

Ukrainians in Canada Express Frustration, Call for Just Peace

Ukrainians in Canada are feeling both exhaustion and anger as the war drags on, with many frustrated by the continued violence and shifting geopolitical landscape. While Nikolenko, Ukraine’s consul general in Toronto, avoided directly criticized the U.S., he emphasized that the focus should remain on ending the war “in a just manner.” Zelenskyy’s willingness to sacrifice his presidency for peace underscores the desperation for a resolution, while also highlighting the complexities of a conflict that continues to shape global alliances and security frameworks. As world leaders gather in Kyiv, the summit serves as a critical moment to reaffirm international support for Ukraine and chart a path toward a lasting resolution.