April 2, 2021
OTTAWA, ON. Today the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) issued the following statement:
In the last several weeks, Russia has significantly escalated aggression in its war against Ukraine. Reports of Russian troop movements towards Ukraine’s borders in the east and in occupied Crimea have increased. Shelling and attacks by Russian forces on Ukrainian positions on the eastern front have escalated. On March 26, four Ukrainian soldiers were killed defending Ukraine.
The UCC applauds Canada and the United States for their swift reaction and unequivocal condemnation of this recent Russian escalation.
Yesterday, the Honourable Marc Garneau, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, unequivocally condemned Russian actions that violate the July 2020 ceasefire agreement. Upholding the ceasefire is fundamental to ensuring progress toward a peaceful resolution of the conflict in eastern Ukraine. He reiterated Canada’s unwavering support for Ukrainian sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity.
Llyod Austin, US Secretary of Defense, condemned recent escalations of Russian aggressive and provocative actions in eastern Ukraine. Secretary Austin reiterated the U.S. commitment to building the capacity of Ukraine’s forces to defend more effectively against Russian aggression.
This escalation by Russia must be met with a strong and forceful response by the international community. The UCC calls on Canada and the international community to:
Significantly increase sanctions on Russia to deter further aggression against Ukraine; and
Increase the provision of military equipment and defensive weapons to support Ukraine’s defence of its people and territory.
The UCC expresses deep condolences to the families and friends of the four Ukrainian soldiers – Serhiy Barnych, Maksym Abramovych, Serhiy Haychenko, and Serhiy Koval – killed on March 26 defending Ukraine against Russia’s aggression.
May their Memory Be Eternal! Вічная Пам’ять! Слава Героям!