Canada Announces C$350 Million Air Defense Package for Ukraine

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a C$350 million aid package to help Ukraine acquire air defense interceptors, following a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Calgary. The announcement comes as Ukraine faces a shortage of American made Patriot interceptors capable of countering Russian ballistic missile attacks, which have intensified in recent weeks.

Carney said the agreement would help protect Ukrainian civilians, infrastructure, and airspace, though he did not specify which interceptor systems would be delivered or provide a timeline for the aid. The equipment will reportedly be supplied through a U.S.-backed program that allows allied nations to purchase and deliver weapons systems, including Patriot missiles, to Ukraine.

Canada Expands Drone Production and Energy Support

Beyond the defense package, Carney said Canada plans to significantly increase drone manufacturing, aiming to produce millions of units within the next two years, with roughly a third designated for Ukraine. Zelenskiy emphasized Ukraine’s ongoing need for additional technology and funding to counter large-scale Russian drone attacks.

Canada also committed nearly C$435 million in new loan guarantees to the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, aimed at supporting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure ahead of the winter season. Since Russia’s invasion began in 2022, Canada has provided more than C$25.5 billion in total aid to Ukraine, including substantial military assistance.