In a joint news conference with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy provided an update on the ongoing conflict with Russian forces, stating that Ukrainian troops were engaged in both defensive and counteroffensive actions. Zelenskyy mentioned that he remains in regular contact with the commanders overseeing various fronts, and asserted that their mindset was “positive.
President Zelenskyy said that “the counteroffensive, defensive actions are taking place in Ukraine. I will not speak about which stage or phase they are in. I am in touch with our commanders of different directions every day.” He also added, citing the names of five of Ukraine’s top military leaders. “Everyone is positive. Pass this on to Putin.”
Recent fighting in southern and eastern Ukraine has intensified, leading to speculation about the progress of Ukraine’s anticipated push against Russian forces. Reports suggest that Ukrainian troops have made advances near Bakhmut in the east and Zaporizhzhia in the south, along with conducting long-range strikes on Russian targets. However, due to conflicting narratives from both sides, it is challenging to assess the actual situation on the front lines.
During his visit, Prime Minister Trudeau became the first foreign leader to travel to Ukraine following devastating floods caused by the breach of a dam on the Dnieper River. Trudeau expressed Canada’s support by offering monetary, military, and moral assistance to Ukraine. He pledged an additional $500 million in military aid, bringing Canada’s total contribution since the start of the war in February 2022 to $8 billion. Trudeau also announced $10 million in humanitarian aid to assist with the flood response. Although he did not directly blame Moscow, Trudeau attributed the collapse of the dam to Russia’s ongoing war.
Furthermore, Trudeau called upon international organizations to provide assistance to those living in Russian-occupied territories affected by the flooding from the breached Kakhovka dam. Thousands of people have been displaced, raising concerns about both humanitarian and environmental crises in the region.
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