Canada Announces $64.8 Million in Military Assistance to Ukraine
Brussels, Belgium – On October 18, 2024, at the NATO Defence Ministers’ meeting in Brussels, Canada’s Minister of National Defence, the Honourable Bill Blair, announced a substantial military assistance package of $64.8 million for Ukraine as it continues to defend itself against Russian aggression.
This latest commitment includes $27.3 million allocated for the procurement of small arms and ammunition from Canadian manufacturers, contributing to over $120 million in similar donations made by Canada since the conflict began. The need for small arms remains critical for Ukrainian forces on the battlefield.
In a notable initiative aimed at supporting female soldiers, Minister Blair announced an investment of $20 million to manufacture personal protective equipment and military uniforms tailored specifically for women in the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU). This funding will ensure that 30,000 women soldiers are outfitted with appropriately sized military gear, expanding upon a pilot project initiated in October 2023.
Additionally, Canada will contribute $5 million to the Drone Capability Coalition Common Fund, a collaborative effort among Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) members to bolster Ukraine’s drone industry and procure essential drones for its defense.
Minister Blair also revealed the following donations:
- Up to $10.5 million to support Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) activities, including training for Ukrainian forces.
- Up to $2 million to join the IT Capability Coalition, continuing Canada’s role in strengthening Ukraine’s cyber defenses against ongoing attacks.
These announcements form part of a broader military assistance package totaling $500 million, previously outlined by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the NATO Summit in July 2024. This includes $444 million earmarked for military equipment, assistance, and training for Ukraine’s armed forces.
Minister Blair emphasized Canada’s commitment, stating, “Canada stands united with its Allies and partners in our unwavering support for Ukraine as it fights for its freedom and security. The military assistance announced today provides Ukraine with important resources needed to defend itself against Russian aggression. Canada will continue to do what it takes to help them achieve victory.”
Since the onset of the conflict in February 2022, Canada has pledged over $19.5 billion in total assistance to Ukraine, which includes $4.5 billion in military aid. This support has comprised Leopard 2 main battle tanks, armored combat support vehicles, anti-tank weapons, small arms, M777 howitzers, and associated ammunition.
As part of Operation UNIFIER, Canada has trained more than 42,000 members of the AFU, with current training efforts continuing in the United Kingdom, Poland, and Latvia. The CAF mission has been extended until March 2026 to address ongoing training needs.
These latest donations align with Ukraine’s stated priorities and have been validated by the UDCG and the International Donor Coordination Centre, reaffirming Canada’s dedication, alongside its allies, to ensure Ukraine’s success in its ongoing struggle against Russian aggression.
For further details on Canada’s military support to Ukraine, visit the official National Defence website.