August 24, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ottawa, ON – The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada and the Official Opposition, released the following statement on Ukrainian Independence Day:
“Thirty-three years ago, Ukraine declared its independence from the Soviet Union. Decades of communist oppression came to an end as the Ukrainian people charted a new course toward freedom and democracy.
From the Carpathian Mountains to the eastern steppe, and from golden-domed Kyiv to the shores of the Black Sea, Ukraine is a land of deep culture and immense natural beauty. The Ukrainian people are known across the globe for their resilience and independence – and for a fierce pride in their history.
This day is also special for 1.4 million Canadians of Ukrainian heritage. From homesteads on the prairie to the houses of Parliament, the Ukrainian community has been central to our story for well over a century. Their hard work and dedication helped build our common home, and continues to strengthen Canada’s ties to Ukraine.
Over two years ago, Putin launched his full-scale war against the Ukrainian people – seeking to crush the independence they celebrate today. Once-peaceful cities like Kharkiv have witnessed terrible civilian suffering, as Ukrainian soldiers heroically defend their homeland at the front.
Canada’s Common Sense Conservatives are proud to stand with the Ukrainian people – just as we did in 2014, when Russia illegally annexed Crimea. And we are committed to providing them with the weapons and resources they need to win.
I want to wish all Ukrainians a happy and victorious Independence Day.”
“Slava Ukraini!”