Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued a statement announcing non-lethal security assistance to Ukraine
07 August 2014 19:51
“Canada’s response to Russian expansionism and militarism in eastern Ukraine has been swift, targeted and unequivocal.
“In keeping with the values and principles we cherish as Canadians, I am proud of the role we have taken in the international community against this aggression by imposing a broad range of sanctions against those responsible for the crisis in Ukraine, by helping train the Ukrainian military, by isolating Russia at the G-7, and by supporting Ukraine’s economy.
“I am pleased today to announce yet another action that Canada is taking to help the people of Ukraine put an end to the insurgency.
“Today, a CC-130J Hercules from Canadian Forces Base Trenton will be departing for Ukraine in the first of a series of flights to deliver non-kinetic military equipment that Ukraine will be able to use to secure and protect its eastern border against Russian aggression.
“This equipment – which includes helmets, ballistic eyewear, protective vests, first aid kits, tents and sleeping bags – will provide physical and medical protection to those on the front lines against the insurgency. The logistic equipment provided will allow Ukrainian security and border authorities to better detect and track the movement of illicit goods and people. It is what Ukraine has asked us for and we are delivering.
“Canada remains committed to working with its allies and partners to preserve and promote a free, democratic, and peaceful world. We stand prepared to continue to apply further economic and political pressure if the Putin regime’s military aggression and provocative actions continue.”
Canada’s contribution, in the amount of up to $5 million through Canada’s Global Peace and Security Fund (GPSF), includes a range of targeted protection, medical and logistical equipment, such as helmets, ballistic eyewear, protective vests, first aid kits, tents and sleeping bags. The equipment will help strengthen border security in Ukraine by enhancing Ukraine’s capacity to detect the illicit movement of goods and people.
In the wake of the European Union’s announcement that it is lifting its ban on the sale of military technology and hardware into Ukraine, our Government can confirm that there is currently no ban in place on the sale of military technology and hardware to Ukraine in Canada.
http://pm.gc.ca/eng/news/2014/08/07/canada-provide-security-assistance-ukraine
