The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement following a meeting between Ukraine and the United States that took place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on March 11:
"Canada welcomes the news of negotiations between Ukraine and the United States, including a proposed temporary ceasefire and the resumption of U.S. intelligence sharing and security assistance to Ukraine. We also appreciate the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's role in hosting these discussions and supporting diplomatic efforts toward peace.
"A ceasefire could be - must be - the first step toward a just and lasting peace. With this agreement, Ukraine has once again shown its desire to end the war as soon as possible, and its commitment to being a constructive partner in the pursuit of lasting peace. The ball is now in Russia's court to show that it is likewise ready for a ceasefire and to put an end to the bloodshed. The world is watching.
"I am heartened to see that the discussions between Ukraine and the United States placed particular attention on the critically important humanitarian dimensions of a ceasefire. This war has taken a deep toll, nowhere more than on the children forcibly taken from their families. Canada has helped champion these human dimensions of peace, and we cannot agree more with the value of a ceasefire including such elements as prisoner exchanges, the release of civilian detainees, and of course, the return of Ukrainian children.
"There is much more work to be done. Russia must now be consulted to see if they, too, will agree to a ceasefire, and beyond that, to negotiate a lasting peace, where Europe and Ukraine's global partners must play a pivotal role. Canada stands ready to do its part.
"Since the start of Russia's war of aggression, Ukrainians have endured unimaginable suffering. As we have shown time and again, Canada will continue to stand with Ukraine, and help to end this illegal invasion, prevent future aggression, and build a future where Ukraine is secure, stable, and free."
