Address by General Jennie CARIGNAN Chief of the Defence Staff of Canada

to the Kyiv Security Forum

8 May 2025

Today, the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, is an opportunity for us to reflect on the end of World War II. A chance to reflect on how authoritarianism let loose on the world led to a conflict that caused devastation on a horrific scale. It is also a chance to reflect on how like-minded nations came together to defend allies' sovereignty and ultimately end the war. And then work together to build a new international order based on the rule of law and respect for human dignity.

An international order that for the past 80 years has led to much security, stability, peace, and prosperity.

Once again though, to our sorrow, the shadow of authoritarianism has cast its darkness over Europe. But once again, like-minded nations are working together to prevent its spread. This is showcased today at the 17th Kyiv Security Forum.

Yet no one is working harder or sacrificing more than the brave people of Ukraine and your courageous security forces.

The members of the Canadian Armed Forces are proud to support you in your struggle by assisting with training, by providing battlefield supplies and by airlifting those supplies and similar contributions from other countries, more than 24 million pounds worth in the past three years. We do this out of duty. Supporting you in this fight is the responsibility of all nations who believe in the right to self-determination and the sanctity of borders.

We do it out of respect for Canada's long-standing support for Ukrainians' freedom. Indeed, Canada was the first Western country to recognize Ukraine's independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. And we do this out of love, because nowhere else in the Western world are there as many citizens proud to claim Ukrainian heritage. You are family.

As you continue to fight day in and day out for your security, your sovereignty, and to push back against the expansion of authoritarianism, your resolve, your resilience, and your fighting spirit are an inspiration for people in Canada and around the world. Slava Ukraini!