Canada extends, expands military training mission in Ukraine

Canada is extending its training mission in Ukraine. | Photo: MGN

from Associated Press reports
Updated: January 26, 2022 05:51 PM
Created: January 26, 2022 05:50 PM

Canada is extending its mission to train Ukrainian soldiers by three years. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says Canada will also enlarge the mission.

Trudeau said Wednesday that he has authorized the Canadian Armed Forces to deploy 60 more personnel to join 200 troops already on the ground, with further capacity to increase that number up to 400.

"Our ongoing commitment to Operation Unifier guarantees the Canadian Armed Forces continued support of the security forces of Ukraine so that Ukraine can defend its sovereignty, security and territorial integrity," Trudeau said at a news conference.

It's part of a $340 million Canadian ($268 million U.S.) commitment.

Trudeau says Canada's operation also includes a provision of non-lethal equipment, intelligence sharing and support to combat cyberattacks.