It's up to Ukraine to determine its own ways of defending itself, French and Canadian leaders say

Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau and French Premier Gabriel Attal have stated that their countries condemn Russia's aggressive war against Ukraine and remain "firmly committed" to the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders, including its territorial waters.

Source: European Pravda, citing Canadian PM Justin Trudeau and French PM Gabriel Attal

Details: The prime ministers stressed that they would continue to provide Ukraine with financial, humanitarian, military, and diplomatic support for as long as needed. 

"We believe that it is up to Ukraine to decide how to defend itself and protect its people. Canada and France will continue its support bilaterally and through all the international organisations of which they are members," the statement said. 

Ottawa and Paris also pledged to continue their efforts within the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children.

Furthermore, they reaffirmed their long-term support for Ukraine within the Joint Declaration of the G7 countries in support of Ukraine and relevant bilateral agreements recently adopted in 2024. 

"Canada and France are determined to help with the recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine by responding to immediate humanitarian needs, supporting reform and anti-corruption efforts, and strengthening trade investment in Ukraine with a view to fostering private-sector participation," summarised the prime ministers of both countries.

Background:

• Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna believes that Ukraine's attacks on Russian oil refineries are justified since they help curb Russia's revenues and make it harder for Russia to wage war.
• Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs stated that Ukraine has every right to strike Russian oil refineries after the latest Russian attack on Ukraine.
• NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg believes that Ukraine has the right to strike "legitimate military targets" outside its borders.
• US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin has recently criticised the Ukrainian strikes on the refineries, questioning their impact on the war.

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