CALGARY — Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced a new package of military and energy support for Ukraine following talks with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as Kyiv seeks additional assistance to defend its cities and critical infrastructure against intensified Russian attacks.

Carney announced C$350 million in military equipment to help Ukraine acquire critical air defence interceptors, alongside nearly C$435 million in new loan guarantees aimed at strengthening the country's energy security ahead of winter.

The announcements were made on Thursday during Zelenskyy's visit to Canada.

The Canadian government says the military package will be delivered through a United States programme that allows allied countries to purchase American military equipment for Ukraine.

The specific interceptors and delivery timetable were not immediately disclosed.

“As Russia escalates its barbaric aerial warfare indiscriminately targeting civilian populations, Ukraine's air defences are critical,” Carney said.

He said the C$350 million equipment package would help protect Ukraine's population, infrastructure and airspace.

Zelenskyy welcomed the commitment, describing the air defence assistance as particularly important as Ukraine faces continued Russian missile and drone attacks.

CANADA PROVIDES WINTER ENERGY SUPPORT

Canada is also providing nearly C$435 million in new loan guarantees through the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

The financing is intended to support Ukraine's energy security, including its ability to purchase natural gas and strengthen infrastructure ahead of winter.

Energy infrastructure has become a major concern for Kyiv as Russian attacks continue to target Ukraine's electricity and energy systems.

The support is designed to help Ukraine maintain essential energy supplies as colder weather approaches.

CANADA PLANS MAJOR DRONE EXPANSION

Carney also announced plans to dramatically increase Canada's drone production over the next two years.

The Prime Minister said Canada intends to develop the capacity to manufacture millions of drones, with one third of future production designated to support Ukraine's defence.

Canada's armed forces currently operate only a fraction of the number of drones Carney says the country will eventually require.

Ukraine has emerged as one of the world's most experienced users and manufacturers of military drones since Russia launched its full scale invasion in February 2022.

Carney said cooperation with Ukraine could strengthen Canada's own defence industry while providing Kyiv with equipment needed on the battlefield.

Zelenskyy said Ukraine needs additional technology and financing to increase drone production as Russia expands its use of unmanned aircraft.

CANADA'S SUPPORT PASSES C$25 BILLION

Canada has committed more than C$25.5 billion in overall assistance to Ukraine since Russia's full scale invasion began in 2022.

That includes approximately C$8.5 billion in military assistance.

Earlier this year, Carney also announced additional military support including ammunition, Canadian manufactured armoured vehicles and technology and engineering equipment.

Canada has additionally extended Operation UNIFIER, its military training and capacity building mission supporting Ukraine, until 2029.

The Canadian government says its long term assistance is intended to support Ukraine's defence, reconstruction and eventual recovery.

Zelenskyy and First Lady Olena Zelenska are visiting Canada from September 9 to September 11, with engagements scheduled in Calgary, Toronto and North Bay.

The Ukrainian president is also expected to address Canadian Cabinet members during a planning forum in Banff.

Talks during the visit are focused on defence, economic cooperation, energy security and Ukraine's reconstruction.

NO CONFIRMATION OF NEW 100 YEAR AGREEMENT

Claims circulating online have described Thursday's announcements as including a new 100 year partnership between Canada and Ukraine.

However, Canada's official statements detailing Zelenskyy's visit and the country's existing bilateral agreements do not currently confirm such an agreement.

Canada and Ukraine already have a bilateral Agreement on Security Cooperation signed on February 24, 2024.

That agreement is valid for 10 years and covers areas including military assistance, reconstruction, demining, countering disinformation and broader security cooperation.

Canada and Ukraine have continued expanding cooperation under that framework.

Thursday's confirmed announcements centre on air defence, energy security and plans for significantly increased drone production.

The measures come as Ukraine continues to seek additional international assistance to counter Russia's intensified aerial attacks and protect its energy infrastructure ahead of winter.