Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has expressed support for a proposed energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, attributing the development to U.S. President Donald Trump’s diplomatic efforts. The ceasefire aims to halt attacks on energy infrastructure, a move Carney believes could help mitigate the conflict’s impact on civilians. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also welcomed the announcement, though he awaits further details from the White House.
However, Carney criticized a separate agreement by the Trump administration to secure diesel supplies from Moscow, warning that it could provide Russia with additional funds to sustain its military actions against Ukraine. This criticism comes amid concerns from the Canadian government that the deal might counteract ongoing international efforts to stabilize the region.
President Trump defended the diesel agreement as a measure to alleviate fuel price pressures in the United States. Nevertheless, the deal has sparked debate regarding its compatibility with sanctions on Russian energy imports following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. U.S. Republican Senator Thom Tillis questioned the legality of the arrangement, while Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent assured that the administration would adhere to legal frameworks.
Despite the ceasefire proposal, Zelenskyy reported continued Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, citing over 200 strikes on electricity and 17 on gas and oil facilities in the past week. He called on Russia to honor the proposed agreement and halt these attacks.
In a discussion with Carney, Zelenskyy outlined plans to enhance air defense cooperation, specifically to counter ballistic missile threats and prepare for the winter season. The two leaders also discussed Canada’s involvement in the FREYJA anti-ballistic missile system project, a collaboration with European partners aimed at providing an alternative to the U.S.-made Patriot system.
The dialogue between Carney and Zelenskyy further emphasized the need for coordinated efforts with European allies to address Ukraine’s military and defense needs, with European Union leaders set to discuss these issues in upcoming meetings.