-21d0b63c17f6020e4df75f6c6f9a2f4f.jpg "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held his first in-person meeting with Canada’s new Prime Minister Mark Carney on May 17 in Rome, discussing coordinated pressure on Russia, security assistance, and international diplomatic efforts to end the war.
According to a statement from the Office of the President of Ukraine, the two leaders focused on sanctions against Russia, including secondary sanctions targeting energy exports and Russia’s shadow tanker fleet.
Zelenskyy emphasized the need for sanctions that would compel Moscow to take concrete steps toward ending the war.
“We discussed the types of sanctions that can work — including energy, financial, and secondary sanctions — to increase pressure on Russia,” Zelenskyy wrote on social media following the meeting. He also thanked Canada for its continued support, calling the country “a true friend of Ukraine.”
Zelenskyy informed Carney about recent Russian missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian civilians and highlighted the urgent need to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense systems.
He also provided an update on ongoing negotiations in Istanbul and underscored the importance of continued coordination with international partners.
The leaders discussed Canada’s current G7 presidency and its role in maintaining international focus on supporting Ukraine and achieving a just peace. Carney confirmed Canada’s invitation for Zelenskyy to attend the upcoming G7 summit in June.
Earlier, on March 16, President Zelenskyy held a phone call with newly appointed Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. During the conversation, Carney reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to Ukraine, called for an immediate ceasefire, and pledged stronger enforcement of sanctions against Russia.
