Trudeau, world leaders discuss steps to provide more aid to Ukraine, help refugees

In response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Canada has announced 14 new sanctions against close associates of the Russian regime. This includes Russia’s President Vladimir Putin’s two adult daughters. 

Since February the federal government has placed sanctions on more than 750 individuals and entities with ties to this war, mainly from Russia and Belarus. 

The announcement comes as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau takes part in the meeting on Ukraine hosted by U.S. President Joe Biden, U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, the leaders of the EU and NATO. This meeting is expected to provide clarity on what allies will coordinate efforts on for the next steps to address Russia’s attacks. They also discussed more military aid for Ukraine, beefing up NATO’s presence in Europe, and efforts to help the more than two million refugees who have fled the violence.

This morning, I spoke with @POTUS Biden and other leaders about the current situation in Ukraine and our coordinated response. We denounced Russia's war crimes and ongoing brutality, promised to hold the Russian regime accountable, and agreed to continue coordinating closely.

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) April 19, 2022

Meanwhile, Biden is expected to announce a new security assistance package in the coming days that will include additional artillery and ammunition, according to a U.S. official.

The official, who was not authorized to comment publicly and spoke on the condition of anonymity, said details of the latest package are being finalized.

Last week, in anticipation of Russia’s offensive in eastern Ukraine, Biden approved an $800 million package which included additional helicopters and the first provision of American artillery. The U.S. has sent about $2.6 billion in military aid to Ukraine since Russia invaded.

Asked by reporters whether he’d be sending more artillery, Biden said, “Yes.”

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said “providing more ammunition and security assistance to Ukraine” was discussed by Biden and other allied leaders during a video call on Tuesday.

Additionally, Trudeau has also said Canada will send heavy artillery to Ukraine.

Trudeau says he’s been in close contact with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Canada is very responsive to what Ukraine needs. He says there will be more details on the pledge in the days to come, and that Ukrainians have “fought like heroes.”