On June 5, 2025, the 11th meeting in the Group of Friends of Ukraine format took place in Ottawa ahead of the G7 Leaders’ Summit. Ambassadors and representatives of diplomatic missions from over 60 countries accredited in Canada joined the discussion, alongside David Angell, Foreign and Defence Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister of Canada.

The meeting focused on the next steps the international community can take to achieve a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine. Ambassador of Ukraine to Canada Yuliya Kovaliv briefed her colleagues on the current situation at the frontlines, underlining the urgent need to maintain and strengthen military assistance to Ukraine, as well as to increase pressure on the Russian Federation - particularly through expanded sanctions, further reduction of the price cap on Russian oil, and the use of frozen Russian assets.

In the context of Ukraine’s reconstruction, the Ambassador outlined key priority areas requiring international support to enable Ukraine to recover its economy and infrastructure, and continue progressing toward EU and NATO membership.

We sincerely thank Ambassador of Spain to Canada Alfredo Martínez and Head of the EU Delegation to Canada Geneviève Tuts for initiating and organizing this important event. As the G7 Summit in Kananaskis approaches, it is critical to move from discussion to joint decisions and concrete actions to bring about a ceasefire and a long-term, just peace.