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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Ukraine travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: June 4, 2024 08:03 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, ukraine - avoid all travel.

Russia launches missile and drone strikes against Ukrainian civilian and government infrastructure. These include attacks on city centres and populated areas, including Kyiv. The ongoing Russian invasion poses a significant security risk, even if you are not near the front lines.

If you are in Ukraine, you should consider leaving the country if you can do so safely.

Our ability to provide consular services in Ukraine is severely limited.

Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine

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Russian military invasion

On February 24, 2022, Russia began a full-scale military invasion of Ukraine, launching attacks across the country, including in major cities. In addition to military targets, Russia has and continues to attack Ukrainian civilian and government infrastructure in multiple cities, including Kyiv.

Heavy fighting is ongoing in several areas of the country. Bombardments, explosions and missile launches occur daily. The invasion has directly caused thousands of civilian casualties. There are basic supply shortages and essential services disruptions in areas close to the front lines. Strikes and bombardments could also pose a threat to Ukraine’s nuclear energy infrastructure, notably the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.

Ukrainian airspace is currently closed. The government of Ukraine has declared a state of emergency and imposed martial law, which gives local authorities broad powers to enforce security measures including:

• security checks
• mandatory evacuation
• prohibition of assembly
• mandatory mobilization

The government of Ukraine decreed a full military mobilization. If local authorities consider you a citizen of Ukraine, you may be subject to military obligations and will likely be prevented from leaving the country.

Russian military action in Ukraine could further disrupt key infrastructure and transportation routes and limit the provision of essential services throughout the country.

Security conditions remain extremely unstable. Your safety is at high risk, particularly if you engage in active combat.

If you are in Ukraine, you should follow the instructions of local authorities at all times, including air raid warning sirens, curfews and evacuation orders.

If you are near military activity:

• review your personal security plans on a daily basis
• identify the location of the closest bomb shelter
• shelter in a hardened structure away from windows when air raid warning sirens are active

You should leave the country now if you can do so safely. If you choose to stay in Ukraine despite this advisory:

• maintain a supply of basic food, water and medications
• monitor trustworthy news sources to stay informed on the evolving situation
• ensure that your passport and other travel documents are secure at all times
• inform a family member or friend of your whereabouts
• register and update your contact information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and encourage other Canadian citizens in Ukraine to do so

Our ability to provide consular services in Ukraine is severely limited. You should not depend on the Government of Canada to help you leave the country.

If you are able to leave Ukraine safely:

• verify your destination’s entry requirements regularly
• expect highly congested routes, checkpoints and delays
• make sure to stop at all checkpoints and roadblocks, even if they appear unattended
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• bring sufficient gasoline if you use your car

Territories illegally occupied by Russia

The Russian Federation illegally occupied and annexed Crimea and holds strict control over the area. It also illegally occupies parts of the following oblasts:

• Zaporizhzhia

These areas are heavily militarized and intense fighting is ongoing. There are reports of war crimes and arbitrary detention of foreigners.

Due to the current situation, the Embassy of Canada to Ukraine in Kyiv has extremely limited access to consular clients. The Embassy of Canada to Russia in Moscow is only accredited to Russia and therefore cannot provide services in territories of Ukraine illegally occupied by Russia.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, occurs, particularly:

• in crowded places
• in tourist areas
• in bars and nightclubs
• on public transportation

In central Kyiv, criminal activity, including mugging, is more prevalent at night.

• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash

Harassment and assaults can happen against individuals who act or appear as foreigners. Local authorities may not respond to racially motivated violence and harassment.

Violent crime

Armed robbery and violent outbursts can occur, especially in larger cities.

Weapons, including small arms and explosives, are present in all areas of the country. The number and accessibility of available weapons increased following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Criminal activity can be harder to track and is unpredictable because of the war. Violent outbursts rarely target tourists, but you could find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time. Be aware of your surroundings and remain vigilant.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Gender-based violence is on the rise in Ukraine.

Incidents of attacks and sexual assault, including rape, have been reported throughout the country, particularly in major cities.

• Avoid travelling alone, especially after dark
• Exercise caution on the street near bars and nightclubs
• Be careful when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances, especially regarding the acceptance of rides or other invitations

Women or other survivors of gender-based violence may be discouraged or blocked from reporting aggressors to the authorities. If you are a survivor of a sexual assault or other crime, you should report it immediately to the police and the nearest Canadian office.

Advice for women travellers

Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using credit or debit cards.

• Cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• Pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• Avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• Use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• Check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Investment fraud

Unsolicited emails offering enticing business or financial opportunities are most likely fraudulent. Don’t travel to Ukraine with the intention to obtain restitution after losing money to a scam.

If you plan on buying property, or making other investments in Ukraine, seek legal advice in Canada and in Ukraine. Do so before making commitments. Related disputes could take time and be costly to resolve.

Scammers often target tourist areas and hotels.

Be aware of street scams. A common scam sees a person dropping a wallet or a bundle of money in front of a tourist, hoping the tourist will pick it up. The scammer then accuses the tourist of stealing some of the money. These scams can involve several criminals, sometimes posing as police officers. Don’t pick up the dropped items if you face this type of behaviour. Simply walk away without engaging in conversation.

Overcharging

Certain establishments, such as bars or nightclubs, may try to inflate your bill or charge you exorbitant prices.

Discussions about overcharging have turned violent. Tourists have been threatened and forced to pay the bill by the establishment's security guards.

• Always confirm the price of an item before ordering
• Do not leave an open bill
• Avoid giving your credit card to bar or restaurant staff
• Check your bill for accuracy before paying

Romance scams

Romance scams on dating sites or through social media have occurred. Be wary of online advertisements offering dating or marriage services in Ukraine. Do your research and verify the legitimacy of services before paying for anything.

• Beware of people who show a keen interest online
• Keep in mind that you may be the victim of a scam if you go to Ukraine to visit someone that you met online
• Always meet new acquaintances in a secure and familiar location
• Be mindful of the risk of inviting new acquaintances in your hotel room or apartment

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

• Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

Demonstrations

Mass gatherings, including demonstrations and protests, are prohibited under martial law.

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities and further attacks are likely.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

Following a disaster at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant in 1986, an exclusion zone of 30 km was established by local authorities which includes the cities of Prypiat and Chornobyl. The exclusion zone remains radioactive. Access to this zone is strictly restricted and must be arranged through a specialized tour operator. Anyone visiting Chornobyl must follow the safety instructions issued by the State Agency of Ukraine on Exclusion Zone Management.

Safety instructions  - State Agency of Ukraine on Exclusion Zone Management

Road safety

Travel by road can be hazardous. Drivers do not always respect traffic laws. They may drive at excessive speeds and be reckless. Pedestrians and cyclists should be particularly careful.

Avoid driving at night outside major cities. Limited road visibility, poor vehicle maintenance and intoxicated drivers pose hazards.

While roadside services such as repair facilities exist, they are frequently inadequate.

Road conditions

Most roads outside major cities are poorly maintained. Some roads and bridges may be unusable or damaged by fighting from the Russian military invasion. Drivers experiencing elevated stress and fatigue due to road damage and unpredictable conditions may be aggressive or confrontational. Ensure that your vehicle doors are locked and windows are closed at all times

Public transportation

Kyiv has a reliable metro system. Buses, however, are usually overcrowded and in poor condition.

Public transportation services and infrastructure across the country are susceptible to short- and long-term interruptions due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

At public transportation hubs, order a taxi from a designated taxi booth within the arrivals terminal or use a trusted ride-sharing app. Do the same in the city instead of hailing a taxi on the street. Negotiate fares in advance to avoid excessive fares.

There is a risk of robbery and muggings on trains, particularly in overnight sleeper cars

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Store personal belongings and travel documents in a safe place
• Don’t leave the compartment unattended
• Ensure that the door is secured from the inside

Ukrainian airspace is closed.

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Ukrainian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave from Ukraine.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period Student visa: not required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period Work permit: required

If you intend to stay in Ukraine for more than 90 days, you must obtain a visa prior to entering the country. For further details on visas and work permits, please contact the Embassy of Ukraine to Canada.

You must have an invitation from a Ukrainian company or individual if travelling to Ukraine for any other purpose than tourism. Before you travel, contact the nearest Ukrainian embassy for more information about the invitation process.

• Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada
• Ukrainian visa information - Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

Other entry requirements

Immigration officials may ask for proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Ukraine.

Crimea and parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia Oblasts

Areas of Ukraine illegally occupied by Russia are active combat zones and all designated checkpoints for entry and exit to these areas are closed.

Ukrainian authorities will refuse entry to foreigners who attempt to enter Ukraine from Russia through Crimea or areas in Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia oblasts illegally occupied by Russia. You may be subject to arrest and detention for questioning to verify your identity. Entry to Ukraine from illegally occupied areas may be possible via specially organized humanitarian corridors or as a refugee.

• Children and travel

Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Health care standards vary throughout the country. Facilities are limited outside major cities, even in private institutions. Doctors and nurses may not be able to communicate in English (or French) and not all hospitals have translation services available.

The Russian military invasion may disrupt access to medical services and the capabilities of medical facilities. Supply chains may face constraints, leading to shortages for medical products and medication. Hospitals and clinics may face staff shortages. Frequent power outages may impact the ability of medical facilities to properly sterilise their equipment and spaces.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive, and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Identification

Local police may ask to see your passport and visa at any time.

• Carry adequate identification at all times
• Keep a photocopy or digital copy of your passport in a safe place, in case of loss or seizure
• Always cooperate with local authorities and be aware that they could detain you while your identification documents are being verified

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Photography

Don’t take pictures of military installations, including mobile or temporary defense equipment or other government buildings. This includes drones flying overhead, air defenses, downed aircraft and drones/missiles as well as damaged or derelict military equipment.

You should be careful when uploading photos or video to social media to ensure that no prohibited buildings or equipment appear in your content, even in the background. You could face arrest and jail time if you take or upload photos or videos with prohibited content visible.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Ukraine.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Ukraine, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

You may be considered a citizen of Ukraine if you were born in Ukraine or if one or both of your parents are Ukrainian citizens.

Due to the ongoing Russian military invasion, males between 18 and 60 years of age holding Ukrainian citizenship are prohibited from leaving the country.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

Mandatory military service (mobilization)

Ukraine has mandatory military service for males over the age of 18. Due to the ongoing Russian military invasion, Ukrainian men between 18 and 60 years may be subject to mobilization

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Ukraine.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Ukraine, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Ukrainian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Ukraine to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Surrogacy and adoption

If you plan to visit Ukraine despite this advisory for the purpose of commissioning surrogacy or adoption arrangements, you should consider the potential challenges involved in pursuing international surrogacy and seek specialist legal advice on Ukrainian and Canadian laws prior to making any arrangements.

The Russian military invasion of Ukraine has increased the risk of dangerous complications from childbirth. It has also changed legal and social opinions on international surrogacy and adoption. Attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure could disrupt medical services. Supply chain disruptions could limit the availability of essential medical supplies. You should consider the risk to your safety and the safety of a newborn before travelling to Ukraine.

You should consult with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on current policies regarding citizenship through descent, as well as on the issuance of Canadian travel documents.

Ukraine has strict laws on adoption, including criteria for prospective adopters. These laws may be different for Canadians holding Ukrainian citizenship.

The Embassy of Canada to Ukraine can’t provide recommendations on the selection of surrogacy or adoption agencies.

International adoption – Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence must accredit all travel to Ukraine for media projects. You should consult the Ministry of Defence before you arrive in Ukraine to confirm their advice and regulations.

• How to submit media queries – Ministry of Defence of Ukraine
• Recommendations for media – Armed Forces of Ukraine

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Ukrainian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

Despite large and active 2SLGBTQI+ communities in major urban centres, homosexuality is not widely accepted in Ukrainian society. Avoid public displays of affection.

Expect a heavy police presence at Pride parades and certain 2SLGBTQI+ events. Counter-protests and violence are possible. Have a plan for safely exiting the area when participating in Pride parades or other 2SLGBTQI+ events.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

You must carry an international driving permit

Car insurance is mandatory.

There is zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol.

International Driving Permit

The currency of Ukraine is the hryvnia (UAH).

There is a withdrawal limit at banks and ATMs following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Foreign currency can be exchanged at most banks, hotels and licensed exchange booths.

Upon entering or leaving Ukraine, you must make a declaration to customs if you have €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies. Undeclared amounts exceeding the equivalent of €10,000 may be seized.

There are strict customs regulations and procedures regarding the export of antiquities and items of historical interest. It is prohibited to export antiques, works of art, historical treasures and other similar items without a special permit from the Ukrainian Ministry of Culture.

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Ukraine. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation.

Brush and forest fires are common in eastern and southern Ukraine in July and August. In case of a major fire, stay away from the affected area. Air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

• Always follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
• Monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Flooding occurs in western Ukraine during the spring thaw and following sustained heavy rains. This may cause damage to roads and infrastructure. Plan your route carefully.

There is significant damage to Ukraine’s civil infrastructure due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. In 2023, dams faced attacks and sustained damages. Certain dams were destroyed, including the Nova Kakhovka dam in Kherson.

Following the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam, many towns and settlements in Kherson, Dnipro, and Zaporizhzhia face long-term impacts from flooding. Unexploded ordnance flowed downriver and into flooded areas. Local authorities have issued boil-water advisories in certain areas due to the risk of water-borne illness.

There are severe disruptions to essential services. Many roads in the area are impassable or closed.

If you are in Kherson Oblast:

• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• monitor local news and weather reports
• use only bottled water for drinking and cooking

Snow and Ice Storms

In winter, avalanches, heavy snow and freezing rain pose a risk. They can make roads impassable and can cause power disruptions. These conditions can affect access to isolated areas, including to some tourist resorts. The conditions can also limit the ability of first responders to reach these areas in case of emergency.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 102
• medical assistance: 103
• firefighters: 101
• general emergencies: 112 (from cell phones only)

Consular assistance

If you are in Ukraine and require consular assistance:

• email: [email protected] or
• contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa, at any time

You should also register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Language selection

Canada’s response to the russian invasion of ukraine, x (twitter).

• Embassy of Canada to Ukraine
• Travel.gc.ca - Travel advice from the Government of Canada
• Canada’s Foreign Policy - Global Affairs Canada
• Canada’s International Development - Global Affairs Canada
• Canada’s International Trade - Global Affairs Canada
• Embassy of Canada to Ukraine: @CanEmbUkraine
• Travel.gc.ca: @TravelGoC
• Foreign policy: @CanadaFP
• Development: @CanadaDev
• International trade: @CanadaTrade

On February 24, 2022, Russia began a full-scale military invasion of Ukraine, launching attacks on many cities. The Government of Canada has since put in place measures to help Ukrainians in and outside Canada.

If you are a Canadian in Ukraine and need emergency consular assistance, contact the  Emergency Watch and Response Centre .

We advise travelers to  avoid all travel to Ukraine due to the Russian military invasion.

Support for Ukrainians

Jobs for ukraine.

Jobs on Job Bank that Ukrainians can apply for, with information for employers who recruit them.

Immigration measures

Helping Ukrainians come to Canada. Assisting Canadian citizens and permanent residents to return home.

Provincial and territorial resources

Settlement and orientation services for Ukrainian newcomers.

Opportunities offered to scientists fleeing Ukraine

Department-wide effort to support Ukraine-based scientists through temporary employment opportunities.

What Canada is doing

Economic, humanitarian, development assistance and security and stabilization support.

Responding to needs of people affected by the military invasion.

Targeted sanctions

Sanctions against individuals and entities, prohibitions, import and export controls.

Canadian military support to Ukraine

Providing equipment and training to support the military forces of Ukraine.

Political situation

Supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence.

International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children

Joint Canada-Ukraine initiative to bring illegally deported or forcibly transferred children back to Ukraine.

Agreement on security cooperation between Canada and Ukraine

Canada-Ukraine Strategic Security Partnership (CUSSP) that sets out areas for enhanced bilateral engagement and cooperation.

Countering Russian disinformation

Countering Russian disinformation and information manipulation.

How you can help

How to help ukrainians in canada and abroad.

Donating to and supporting trusted organizations and initiatives.

Donation assistance for disasters abroad

Best ways to help in an emergency situation abroad.

Cyber security precautions

Helping keep Canada and Canadians safe online.

How Canadian businesses can help

The Government of Canada is making an appeal to Canadian businesses interested in providing support to displaced Ukrainians arriving in Canada.

Trade, business and investment

Trade and investment with ukraine.

Adapting to international trade disruptions to reduce risks.

Trade with Russia and Belarus

Regulating and restricting commercial activities with Russia and Belarus.

Access data on Canada’s international trade

Customized reports on Canada trade with over 200 countries.

Related links

• Travel advice and advisories: Russia
• Travel advice and advisories: Belarus
• Travel advice and advisories: Poland
• Canada and Ukraine news

Ukraine immigration measures: Key figures

Key numbers on some of the measures put in place to support Ukrainians fleeing the invasion.

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Ukrainian President Zelenskyy visiting Canada this week: sources

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will be visiting Canada later this week and will deliver an address to Parliament, sources tell CTV News.

Zelenskyy is expected to arrive late Thursday and will deliver a speech to Parliament on Friday morning, rounding out parliamentarians' first week back on the Hill.

He will then head to Toronto and depart later that day, spending approximately 24 hours in this country.

• Complete coverage of the war in Ukraine
• Capital Dispatch: Sign up for in-depth political coverage of Parliament Hill

This visit—his first since Russian President Vladimir Putin's February 2022 invasion of Ukraine—has not been officially announced, but preparations are already underway in the nation's capital.

Zelenskyy will be coming to Canada following a visit with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House in Washington, D.C., and on the heels of his Tuesday address at the United Nations General Assembly in New York City. 

The Ukrainian president delivered a straightforward and emotional virtual address translated from Ukrainian to the Canadian Parliament in March 2022 , imploring members of the House of Commons, Senate, as well as the top officials and special guests present, for further urgent assistance.

If his Tuesday remarks in English to a room full of international officials offer any indication of the message Zelenskyy will be sharing with a Canadian audience, it is likely he will call allies not to succumb to war fatigue, and to be unified and steadfast in their opposition to Russia.

"When hatred is weaponized against one nation, it never stops there. Each decade, Russia starts a new war," Zelenskyy said.

"The goal of the present war against Ukraine is to turn our land, our people, our lives, our resources, into a weapon against you. Against the international rules-based order. Many seats in the General Assembly hall may become empty, empty if Russia succeeds with its treachery, and aggression."

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Stay Connected

Ukrainian President Zelensky will visit Canada after U.S. trip, sources say

This article was published more than 6 months ago. Some information may no longer be current.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky speaks while visiting with wounded Ukrainian soldiers at the Staten Island University Hospital in New York City on Sept. 18. ANGELA WEISS/AFP/Getty Images

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will visit Canada and address the House of Commons later this week to rally support as the Russian invasion of his country grinds on, sources say.

Mr. Zelensky on Tuesday addressed the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where he accused Russia of “genocide,” before heading to Washington, where he is set to meet with U.S. President Joe Biden as well as members of a Congress that is increasingly divided over continuing military assistance to Ukraine .

A visit to Canada has not been formally announced – and Mr. Zelensky’s travel plans are usually a closely guarded secret – but sources in Kyiv told The Globe and Mail that the Ukrainian President would travel to Toronto and Ottawa after the stop in Washington. He is expected to meet Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other cabinet ministers, as well as prominent members of the Ukrainian diaspora, and will address the House of Commons, a source said.

The Globe is not naming the sources because they were not authorized to speak publicly about the Ukrainian President’s travel plans.

Serhiy Leshchenko, an adviser to Mr. Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, said Tuesday that part of the message would be to thank Canada “for being one of our main allies since independence, one of the strongest supporters of Ukraine.”

Mr. Leshchenko said that Mr. Trudeau was admired in Ukraine for being one of the first world leaders to travel to Kyiv after the start of the Russian invasion in February, 2022, “to see with his own eyes” the effects of the war. Mr. Trudeau had travelled to the Ukrainian capital in May, 2022 , and did so again in June of this year, where he announced another $500-million in military assistance.

So far, $33-million of that promised amount has been allocated to buy air-defence equipment to help protect Ukrainian cities from near-nightly Russian using cruise missile and drone attacks.

It will be Mr. Zelensky’s second visit to Canada, and his first since Russian President Vladimir Putin launched the full-scale invasion. Mr. Zelensky previously visited Toronto, and met with Mr. Trudeau, at the Ukraine Reform Conference, which was his first overseas trip after being elected in 2019.

Back then, Mr. Zelensky was a political novice – a television comedian who had shocked the world by defeating incumbent Petro Poroshenko. Today, he’s a global celebrity who has become a symbol of defiance while leading his country’s resistance to the Russian invasion.

In his UN speech, Mr. Zelensky sought to win over countries, many of them in Africa and Latin America, that have refused to condemn the Russian invasion. He cast the threat from Moscow as going far beyond his country’s borders, referencing Mr. Putin’s blockade of Ukraine’s grain shipments. And he cited the deportation of Ukrainian children, taken to Russia and indoctrinated with anti-Ukraine propaganda, as the sort of act that makes Moscow a threat to all countries. Mr. Putin is personally accused of war crimes by the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court over the kidnappings.

“We know the names of tens of thousands of children and we have evidence on hundreds of thousands of others kidnapped by Russia in the occupied territories of Ukraine,” Mr. Zelensky said. “This is clearly a genocide. When hatred is weaponized against one nation, it never stops there. Each decade, Russia starts a new war.”

Mykhailo Podolyak, a top adviser to the Ukrainian President, said in an interview Monday that Mr. Zelensky was heading to the U.S. to lobby for specific weapons, such as ATACMS long-range missile systems that could strike deep behind Russian lines. Ukraine wasn’t seeking anything from Canada at the moment beyond continued support, Mr. Podolyak said.

“Canada is very supportive in terms of money and in terms of equipment. It is firm in terms of its support, like the United Kingdom. Canada has not taken a step back,” he said.

However, Mr. Podolyak hinted that Ukraine might press Canada and other NATO allies for more of the Leopard-2 tanks that were donated to Ukraine ahead of the three-and-a-half-month-old counteroffensive that has seen Ukrainian troops push Russian forces back from several small settlements in the south and east of the country. Earlier this year, Canada donated eight of its 82 Leopard-2 main battle tanks to Ukraine.

Despite online videos that appear to show several Leopards being destroyed by Russian fire, military analysts say the fact that the tank crews can be seen in some of the videos escaping with their lives proved the Leopards’ superiority to the Soviet models Ukraine had been using previously.

“The tanks are great. The problem is there should be more and more,” Mr. Podolyak said.

While the counteroffensive has made only incremental progress so far, Mr. Leshchenko bristled at Western criticism “from a fancy café in Paris or a hotel lobby in Washington.”

He added: “Every metre gained in the counteroffensive is gained with a very high price – the lives of our soldiers, the lives of the best Ukrainians,”

In his own UN speech Tuesday, Mr. Biden exhorted the world and wavering U.S. legislators to keep backing Ukraine, as a far-right faction in the Republican-controlled House of Representatives wants to turn off the tap and is blocking Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s efforts to move forward on any spending bills. At stake is US$24-billion in proposed military aid, in addition to the more than US$44-billion the U.S. has sent since the start of Mr. Biden’s presidency.

“If we abandon the core principles of the United States to appease an aggressor, can any member state in this body feel confident that they are protected? If we allow Ukraine to be carved up, is the independence of any nation secure?” Mr. Biden said. “The answer is no. We must stand up to this naked aggression today to deter other would-be aggressors tomorrow.”

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Suspect in Canada's Largest Gold Heist to Surrender

Suspect in Canada's Largest Gold Heist to Surrender

FILE PHOTO: Police officers open the back of the truck used in the heist after authorities gave details of the arrests made one year after some 400 kg (882 pounds) of gold and almost $2 million USD in cash was stolen from Toronto Pearson International Airport, at a news conference in Brampton, Ontario, Canada April 17, 2024. REUTERS/Carlos Osorio/File Photo

By Saadeq Ahmed

TORONTO (Reuters) - A former Air Canada manager who is wanted for his alleged role in a $20 million gold heist, the largest in Canadian history, is preparing to turn himself, his lawyer told the Canadian Broadcasting Corp on Friday.

Simran Preet Panesar faces charges in connection with the April 2023 theft from Toronto's Pearson airport.

His lawyer, Greg Lafontaine, told CBC that Panesar was out of the country but did not say where. Lafontaine said he had informed authorities that Panesar planned to return to the country voluntarily within the next few weeks to surrender.

"He is anxious to have an opportunity to demonstrate his absolute innocence," Lafontaine said.

Lafontaine told CBC that Panesar was very confident in the justice system and that "when this prosecution is over, he will have been absolved of any wrongdoing."

Police said in April they had arrested six people and were looking for three more.

The suspects, including two Air Canada employees, are accused of forging an airway bill to steal a cargo arriving from Switzerland of 6,600 gold bars weighing 400 kg (882 pounds) and C$2.5 million in foreign currency, police officials said.

Lafontaine's office said he was not able to comment further.

Police said earlier this month that they had arrested and charged Archit Grover, another individual allegedly involved in the gold heist.

(Editing by David Ljunggren and Cynthia Osterman)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau

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• Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy

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Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, on the margins of the G7 Summit in Apulia, Italy.

Prime Minister Trudeau welcomed President Zelenskyy’s participation in the Summit and underlined the G7’s continued unity and solidarity with Ukraine as it continues to resist Russia’s ongoing war of aggression.

The leaders discussed the situation on the ground, and the Prime Minister reaffirmed Canada’s unwavering support for Ukraine as it faces a renewed Russian offensive, including attacks on civilian infrastructure. President Zelenskyy thanked Prime Minister Trudeau for Canada’s shipment, from London, Ontario, of four armoured medical evacuation vehicles, the first of 50 Canadian-built armoured combat support vehicles to Europe, to support Ukraine’s Armed Forces.

As the G7 finalizes the delivery of Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration Loans, Prime Minister Trudeau confirmed that Canada stands ready to contribute $5 billion in funding through this initiative, which brings forward future revenues from frozen Russian sovereign assets to support Ukraine.

The Prime Minister and the President further exchanged on the global implications of Russia’s brutal and unjustifiable war and highlighted President Zelenskyy’s continued efforts toward a just and sustainable peace, including the upcoming Summit on Peace in Ukraine. The Prime Minister looked forward to participating in the Summit and to helping lead discussions on deported children, civilian hostages, and prisoners of war, including in the context of Canada’s co-leadership of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children.

Prime Minister Trudeau and President Zelenskyy reaffirmed their intention to remain in close and regular contact.

Associated Links

• Canada-Ukraine relations
• Prime Minister strengthens global security and stability at the G7 Summit
• International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children
• Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine
• Canada and the G7
• Prime Minister to travel to Europe to attend G7 Summit and the Summit on Peace in Ukraine
• Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy

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Minister Blair concludes productive visit to Brussels for Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting and NATO Defence Ministers’ meeting

From: National Defence

News release

Today, the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, concluded a productive visit to Brussels, Belgium, where he participated in the 23rd Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) meeting and a meeting of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Defence Ministers, including a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council in Defence Ministers format

June 14, 2024 – Brussels, Belgium – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

Today, the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, concluded a productive visit to Brussels, Belgium, where he participated in the 23rd Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) meeting and a meeting of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Defence Ministers, including a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council in Defence Ministers format.

During the UDCG meeting on June 13 hosted by United States Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, Minister Blair announced that Canada plans to send an initial tranche of 2,300 CRV7 rocket motors to Ukraine. He also announced that Canada will provide more than 130,000 surplus rounds of small arms ammunition and 29 Nanuk Remote Weapons Systems from surplus Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) inventory. The Minister also highlighted that the first four of fifty Armoured Combat Support Vehicles built by Canadian workers at General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada are  departing London, Ontario this week .

Following the UDCG meeting, Minister Blair signed a Letter of Intent for the Armour Capability Coalition, formalizing Canada’s membership in the Coalition. Canada is also a member of the Drone Capability Coalition and Air Force Capability Coalition.

On June 13 and 14, Minister Blair participated in a meeting of NATO Defence Ministers ahead of next month’s NATO Leaders’ Summit in Washington. This meeting also marked Sweden’s first Defence Ministers’ Meeting as a full NATO Ally. Allies reaffirmed their commitment to NATO and discussed common defence priorities, including strengthening the Alliance’s deterrence and defence efforts and supporting Ukraine.

The Minister reiterated that Canada’s commitment to NATO is steadfast. Tomorrow, Canada will deploy His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Charlottetown from Halifax, Nova Scotia, to join and assume leadership of Standing NATO Maritime Group 2 in the Mediterranean Sea. Over the next six months, HMCS Charlottetown will execute missions and participate in exercises with Allied warships.

On the margins of the Defence Ministers’ Meeting, Minister Blair and his Romanian counterpart, Defence Minister Angel Tîlvăr, signed a new Canada-Romania Defence Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The MOU will replace the existing Canada-Romania MOU on Bilateral Military Relations, signed by the two countries in 1993. The MOU will enable Canada and Romania to strengthen cooperation in areas including military education, training, and operations, defence research and technology, and mutual logistics support. 

At NATO HQ in Brussels, Minister Blair also held productive meetings with:

• Norway’s Minister of Defence, Bjørn Arild Gram, and Germany’s Minister of Defence, Boris Pistorius. The Ministers discussed ways for Canada, Norway, and Germany to strengthen their collaboration on common priorities.
• Representatives of Estonia, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Minister Blair and his colleagues discussed the reinforcement of NATO’s eastern flank, where Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom and United States lead multinational NATO Battle Groups. The Minister highlighted Canada’s ongoing work to boost its presence in Latvia, including plans for the enhanced Forward Presence Brigade in Latvia to conduct its first Brigade exercise and NATO Combat Readiness Evaluation in Fall 2024. 
• Members of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group Drone Coalition. Minister Blair highlighted that the delivery of 900 Canadian-built drones for Ukraine will begin this month, with more deliveries to follow in the coming months, and noted Canada’s recent investment of $3 million to support the production of drones in Ukraine. Coalition members discussed work to finalize the Coalition Memorandum of Understanding, and ways of enhancing coordination between partner nations. 

Minister Blair, along with several of his counterparts, also signed a Letter of Intent to reiterate their collective support for the Partnership for Peace Consortium of Defense Academies and Security Studies Institutes. This Letter of Intent reaffirms our commitment to strengthening educational partnerships pertaining to defence and security.

During this important moment for Euro-Atlantic security, Canada continues to work closely with NATO Allies to ensure the protection of all Canadians – and the one billion citizens that NATO protects.

“NATO is stronger and more united than ever before – and Canada’s commitment to the Alliance is steadfast. Over the past two days, we have made important progress to prepare for the Washington Summit – and advanced our work to provide Ukraine the tools that it needs to win.” – The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence

Quick facts

NATO is a cornerstone of Canada’s international security policy. Canada steadfastly supports NATO’s principle of collective defence and is providing direct support to NATO missions and operations to this end.

Current Canadian contributions to NATO include:

• leading the NATO Multinational Battlegroup in Latvia as it scales up to a combat capable brigade;
• deploying ships on a persistent basis to the NATO’s Standing Naval Forces – including HMCS Charlottetown, which is set to deploy tomorrow to lead Standing NATO Maritime Group 2;
• continuing to support training and capacity building efforts in the Middle East under Operation IMPACT, including through NATO Mission Iraq; and
• deploying personnel to Kosovo under Operation KOBOLD.

Since February 2022, Canada has committed over $14 billion in assistance to Ukraine, including $4 billion in military assistance. This includes Leopard 2 main battle tanks, armoured combat support vehicles, anti-tank weapons, small arms, M777 howitzers and associated ammunition, high-resolution drone cameras, winter clothing, and more. Canada is also contributing to multinational efforts to train pilots and maintain and support Ukraine’s F-16s.

Canada further contributes to Euro-Atlantic security through our support to Ukraine. Operation UNIFIER is the CAF’s military training and capacity building mission in support of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU). Since 2015, the CAF has trained over 41,000 members of the AFU under Operation UNIFIER. Approximately 300 CAF members are deployed under Operation UNIFIER in various roles, including to provide and coordinate training, and to facilitate and deliver military donations to Ukraine in coordination with Allies.

On 24 February 2024, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau signed the Agreement on security cooperation between Canada and Ukraine . The agreement outlines areas for enhanced bilateral cooperation related to defence, security, stability, and resilience. 

Associated links

• Canada and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization
• Operation REASSURANCE
• Minister Blair announces additional military assistance for Ukraine at the 23rd meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group
• First batch of built-in-Canada armoured vehicles heading to Ukraine’s Armed Forces
• Canadian military support to Ukraine
• Operation UNIFIER

Diana Ebadi Press Secretary and Communications Advisor Office of the Minister of National Defence Email: [email protected]

Media Relations Department of National Defence Phone: 613-904-3333 Email:  [email protected]

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S Korea, US ‘closely monitoring’ potential Putin-Kim meeting in Pyongyang

Russia has promised Putin will visit North Korea after hosting its leader Kim Jong Un in the Russian Far East last September.

South Korean and United States officials have warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to North Korea, which could take place this month and deepen military ties, would be a breach of United Nations Security Council resolutions.

According to Seoul’s foreign ministry on Friday, Vice Foreign Minister Kim Hong-kyun said in an emergency phone call with US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell that Putin’s visit should not result in more military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang.

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North korea sends more rubbish balloons to south after kim sister’s threat, g7 leaders agree to $50bn loan for ukraine at annual summit, russia-ukraine war: list of key events, day 840.

“While closely monitoring related developments, the two sides agreed to resolutely respond through airtight cooperation to North Korea’s provocations against South Korea and actions that escalate tensions in the region,” the ministry said in a statement.

Campbell also pledged continued cooperation to tackle potential regional instability and challenges caused by the visit.

Rumours about the trip began on Monday after Russia’s Vedomosti newspaper reported that Putin would visit North Korea and Vietnam in the coming weeks.

On Thursday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declined to give a date for the possible visit.

“We have the right to develop good relations with our neighbours and this should not cause concern for anyone,” Peskov said.

He added North Korea was a “friendly country for us, with whom we are developing bilateral relations”.

“We will do that further. The potential for development in our relations is very deep”.

Weapons to target Ukraine

The US has claimed that during Russia’s war with Ukraine, North Korean-made missiles and artillery shells have been used to attack Ukraine.

While Moscow and Pyongyang have denied the claims, the two leaders met in eastern Russia last September and agreed to deepen cooperation, including military relations.

On Wednesday, Campbell said the US has a good understanding of what North Korea has provided Russia, adding that it has had “a substantial impact on the battlefield”.

But what’s less clear, he said, was what Russia had given its counterpart.

“Hard currency? Is it energy? Is it capabilities that allow them to advance their nuclear or missile products? We don’t know. But we’re concerned by that and watching carefully,” he said.

In March, US Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines said due to the war on Ukraine, Russia had been forced to grant “long-sought concessions” to North Korea, China and Iran “with the potential to undermine, among other things, long-held non-proliferation norms”.

While Haines did not elaborate on her statement, the reference to non-proliferation norms was a potential warning that Russia could provide North Korea with military-related technology .

Kim has been leading the modernisation of North Korea’s military arsenal, with the country testing an array of weaponry and last November putting its first military spy satellite into orbit .

Canada contributing $5 billion to new G7 deal being finalized to help Ukraine using frozen Russian assets

Pm justin trudeau met with ukrainian president volodymyr zelenskyy thursday.

G7 leaders commit to lending Ukraine $50B US from seized Russian assets

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Canada has agreed to contribute $5 billion to a new plan to provide a major loan to help Ukraine in its fight against Russia.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the other world leaders attending the G7 summit in Italy have struck a new deal to use frozen Russian assets to help Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy after Russian gains on the battlefield.

Trudeau met one-on-one with Zelenskyy at the summit and said Canada was the first country to announce its contribution to the agreement.

Zelenskyy said the idea to use these assets has been on the table since the start of the war and Canada was first to move on it.

"Thank you for your loud voice," Zelenskyy told Trudeau . "It will help Ukraine, not only on the battlefield [but] also in reconstruction."

The U.S.-led plan involves using the interest generated from roughly 200 billion euros in frozen Russian assets, mostly held in Europe, to secure a $50 billion US bank loan for Ukraine. Countries are expected to get that money back.

Biden said the plan will "put that money to work for Ukraine and send another reminder to [Russian President Vladimir] Putin that we're not backing down."

Conflicts looms over G7 summit in Italy

• Wars in Gaza, Ukraine loom over G7 summit as Trudeau heads to Italy

Cynthia Termorshuizen, Canada's sherpa overseeing negotiations and helping draft the G7's final communique, said everyone around the table agrees Russia "is causing damage and they need to pay."

"There was a lot of conversations and Canada was one of the very early players to talk about how we could design this to make this feasible," she said.

The loan is to be delivered by the end of the year and will go toward military aid, humanitarian support and reconstruction efforts in Ukraine.

Russia's foreign ministry immediately fired back, calling the loan plan an illegal initiative and warning retaliatory measures will be extremely painful.

The G7 deal comes at a time when Ukraine is in dire need of more weapons, ammunition and training after a long lull in deliveries from Washington. U.S. Congress approved a $61 billion US military aid package for Ukraine last month, but only after political conflict within the  Republican Party delayed the package for six months.

Defence Minister Bill Blair met with the Ukraine Defence Contact Group in Belgium on Thursday and announced plans to send the first shipment of 2,000 decommissioned rocket motors used by the Royal Canadian Air Force to Ukraine. 

Canada will also donate close to 30 Nanuk remote weapons systems, which is a remotely controlled weapons station that can be used on armoured vehicles. Blair also said the government is sending more than 130,000 rounds of small arms ammunition to Ukrainian troops.

Canada has also announced sanctions against 11 people and 16 entities connected to Russia's "military-industrial complex," the Prime Minister's Office said in a news release Thursday. They include entities involved in circumventing sanctions on Russian oil.

Trudeau took part in a series of working sessions on Thursday with G7 leaders about the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, along with development in Africa and climate change.

He also had bilateral meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Senior reporter

Ashley Burke is a senior reporter with the CBC's Parliamentary Bureau in Ottawa. She was recognized with the Charles Lynch Award and was a finalist for the Michener Award for her exclusive reporting on the toxic workplace at Rideau Hall. She has also uncovered allegations of sexual misconduct in the Canadian military. You can reach her confidentially by email: [email protected]

With files from Reuters and The Canadian Press

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