CALGARY – The government of Manitoba has recently formalized an agreement aimed at supporting the reconstruction of a specific region in Ukraine, targeting areas such as agriculture and leveraging the expertise of Manitoba Hydro. This announcement was made by Premier Wab Kinew in Calgary, following the G7 leaders’ summit held in Kananaskis, Alberta.
Although Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was originally scheduled to meet with Kinew, he departed earlier to return to Ukraine. During the G7 summit, Zelenskyy reported that Russian attacks overnight had resulted in the deaths of 15 people and injuries to over 150 individuals, prompting him to call for greater support from allies around the world.
Kinew signed the memorandum of understanding virtually, solidifying a partnership with Governor Oleksandr Produkin to aid the southern Kherson region, which is partially occupied by Russian forces. Emphasizing Manitoba’s steadfast commitment to Ukraine, Kinew noted that the province has embraced more than 30,000 Ukrainians since the onset of the Russian invasion in 2022.
In his address at the gathering in Calgary, Kinew stated, “I believe the West collectively has a responsibility to Ukraine.” He highlighted a long-standing promise from Western nations to support Ukraine, should it uphold democratic values and human rights. “Now that (they) are the front lines of the war in the global battle against totalitarianism, it is up to Canada and other democracies to back up those words with action,” Kinew remarked.
Kinew also shared a more personal rationale for the support, referencing the sacrifices made by individuals from Manitoba. “Manitobans have shed blood with your people on the front lines of your battlefields,” he expressed. He specifically mentioned Austin Lathlin-Bercier, a 25-year-old native from Opaskwayak Cree Nation in northern Manitoba, who lost his life fighting alongside Ukrainian soldiers against Russian forces after the invasion commenced.
Additionally, Kinew mentioned that a security agent at the Manitoba legislature recently returned home after spending a year on the front lines in Ukraine. Addressing the families of fallen soldiers, he said, “The reason why we want to sign the memorandum is to make sure the mothers whose children have given blood alongside your soldiers will know that they did that in service of a noble victory.”
The signed agreement outlines plans for collaborative efforts in multiple sectors, including agriculture, economic development, education, and healthcare. Kinew expressed a desire to begin sending aid as soon as possible, noting, “We would like not only to offer energy equipment, but we also have Manitoba Hydro International.” He pointed out that Manitoba Hydro had previously engaged in projects in Ukraine during the 1990s, which would enable them to not only provide equipment but also share their expertise.
Welcoming Manitoba’s support on behalf of President Zelenskyy, Ukrainian ambassador Yuliya Kovaliv emphasized the strong ties between Ukrainians and the large Ukrainian community in Canada. “In my estimation, we are up to two million Ukrainian Canadians across the country,” she stated, highlighting the importance of this collaboration.
This initiative marks a significant step for Manitoba in its ongoing support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict and illustrates a commitment to fostering international partnerships for reconstruction and development.
