Newsletter - jan. 27, 2023
Last week, I visited Kyiv - Ukraine’s capital city. Since the beginning of Russia’s illegal and unjustifiable invasion, Canada has committed over $5 billion in combined military, economic, and humanitarian aid. This includes the Leopard tank donation that I announced this week, and our recently-announced donation of a NASAMS air defence system to protect Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure.
In Kyiv, I announced an additional donation of 200 armoured personnel carriers. These vehicles allow for the safe transport of personnel and equipment, and medical evacuations. They allow soldiers to detect threats early, and their armour will help shield troops.
Canada is recognized as a leader in the training of Ukraine’s Armed Forces. Canada’s training mission, Operation UNIFIER, has trained over 35,000 Ukrainian troops with the skills they need to defend their nation.
Our aid, combined with allied support — and most importantly, the bravery and courage of Ukrainian troops - is making a substantive difference. Ukraine has regained significant swaths of previously occupied territory, and I am confident that Ukraine will continue to fight and win this war.
Russia’s brutal invasion of its sovereign neighbour has highlighted the importance of aid to Ukraine, and the need to equip our military with greater capabilities to defend Canada in a changing world. With procurements like the F-35 fighter jet acquisition that I recently announced, we will ensure that our own Armed Forces have the tools that they need.
Supporting Ukraine is not just the right thing to do; it is at the core of our national interests. As I reaffirmed to Ukrainian officials throughout my visit, we will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes for Ukraine to be free.
Visit to Ukraine
During my visit to Ukraine last week, I saw first-hand evidence of the success that Ukraine’s Armed Forces are having in pushing back Russia’s illegal and unjustifiable invasion.
Alongside Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Defence, I laid flowers at the Wall of the Remembrance for the Fallen. I also visited Irpin – a suburb of Kyiv that Russia occupied at the beginning of its further invasion of Ukraine. I was struck by the sights of civilian homes and infrastructure destroyed by Russia’s war, including dozens of destroyed cars that once belonged to ordinary families and that were left behind in the evacuation.
What happens in Ukraine will determine the future of the international rules that protect us all. I salute the incredible resilience and bravery of the Ukrainian people, and I am confident in saying that Ukraine will win and continue to liberate its territory from Russia’s illegal and unjustifiable invasion.
Investing in Halton through the Community Sport for All Initiative
Earlier this week, I was happy to announce with my Halton colleagues that we are funding several projects in our community to deliver inclusive sports programs. Through the Community Sport for All Initiative, we are enabling children in Oakville and Halton to have the best possible start in life.
Visit to Terrestrial Energy
I was pleased to visit Terrestrial Energy with MP Pam Damoff. Small modular reactors will play a crucial role in our fight against climate change. With its innovative IMSR design, Terrestrial Energy is positioning Canada at the forefront of small modular reactor development - from right here in Oakville!
Meeting with the Dar Foundation
Earlier in January, I joined Oakville’s Muslim community for Friday prayer at the Dar Foundation. I always appreciate our meaningful conversations. A pillar of our community, I am so thankful for all of the Dar Foundation’s efforts to support our town. We will continue to work hard every day to build a more inclusive Canada.
Donation of Four Leopard Tanks to Ukraine
In response to Ukraine's urgent request for tanks, I announced yesterday that Canada is sending four combat-ready Leopard 2 main battle tanks to Ukraine in the coming weeks. This announcement also includes ammunition, spare parts, and the deployment of Canadian Armed Forces trainers.
These heavily armoured and highly protected vehicles provide soldiers with a tactical advantage on the battlefield, thanks to their excellent mobility, firepower, and survivability. These tanks will significantly assist Ukraine's efforts to defend itself.
F-35 Acquisition
As our world grows more complex, our aviators must have the most modern, technologically advanced equipment available to protect Canadians. That is why we are making the largest investment in our Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) in three decades, to deliver a new fleet of 88 F-35 fighter jets.
After an open, fair, and transparent procurement process, we are providing the RCAF with the right aircraft at the right price. The F-35 is the best fighter jet for our aviators and our country on the market. These fifth-generation, advanced fighter jets are used by our closest allies. They have top-of-the-line stealth technology and fighter capabilities and enable us to meet our NORAD and NATO commitments.
Further, over three thousand F-35s are to be produced for partners and allies across the world, and every one of these jets will also include Canadian components. This project will sharpen our military edge to keep Canadians safe and create major economic opportunities for our country.
Summer Leadership Program
Attention young leaders interested in politics!
Applications are now open for the Summer Leadership Program (SLP). SLP is a unique internship that gives young people across Canada vital experience working in our political process.
Find out more -> https://slp2023ple.infolib.ca
Happy Lunar New Year!
East Asians in Oakville and around the world are marking the beginning of the Year of the Rabbit, a symbol of peace and prosperity. Communities are celebrating with parades, fireworks, and the lion dance. Wishing all who celebrate a Happy Lunar New Year!