Prime Minister Mark Carney of Canada and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine engaged in a significant discussion on Saturday regarding the recent Russian attacks targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure. In a readout from the Prime Minister’s Office, it was emphasized that Carney condemned these assaults, highlighting Canada's commitment to closely coordinate with Ukraine on strategies to bolster Ukraine's energy system defenses and to ensure adequate gas supplies for the approaching winter season.
Following major Russian attacks on October 10, 2025, power was successfully restored to over 800,000 residents in Kyiv by Saturday. These attacks had led to widespread blackouts throughout Ukraine, with drone and missile strikes reported to have injured at least 20 individuals in Kyiv. The Russian Defence Ministry claimed that the strikes were aimed at energy facilities that serve military needs in Ukraine.
During their conversation, Carney and Zelenskyy also addressed the pressing issue of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, an initiative co-founded by Canada and Ukraine during the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly held the previous month. The leaders agreed on the importance of maintaining close communication as their respective ministers prepare for forthcoming meetings, including the G7 finance ministers assembly and the 2025 annual meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund. These discussions aim to amplify financial pressure on Russia amidst ongoing conflicts.
In addition to the conversation with Carney, Zelenskyy mentioned having a "very positive and productive" phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump on the same day. In a post shared on the social media platform X, Zelenskyy detailed how he informed Trump about the recent Russian assaults on Ukraine’s energy systems. The two leaders also explored opportunities for fortifying Ukraine's air defense mechanisms, reflecting a unified front against the prevailing threats.
This dialogue between Carney and Zelenskyy underscores the ongoing international commitment to support Ukraine amidst its challenges. The escalating conflict with Russia continues to prompt dialogues between world leaders as they search for collaborative approaches to safeguard Ukraine's sovereignty and ensure the well-being of its citizens during the harsh winter months ahead.
