(OTTAWA) Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly has touted the recent crackdown on corruption by the government of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Minister Joly ended a two-day visit to Ukraine, where she says she repeatedly raised Canada’s concerns about corruption, including in meetings with Mr. Zelensky and other senior Ukrainian officials.
As Ukraine fights for its sovereignty and territorial integrity after Russia invaded last year, Mr.me Joly says it’s equally important for the country to fight for and defend the values of a functioning democracy.
Mr Zelensky has reshuffled a number of top posts in recent weeks in response to allegations of corruption, as Western allies funnel billions of dollars into the country’s coffers to help it fight Russia.
According to reports, Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov was set to leave, but three of his deputies were replaced instead.
Mme Joly added that Canada was pressuring other allies to provide more heavy weapons to Ukraine, as promises of massive tank shipments have yet to materialize.
During her visit, the Minister also spoke with the First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, about support for women victims of sexual violence and announced a payment of 3 million to help local groups working to stabilize the country. .
Minister Joly visited projects funded by Canada, such as a demining program run by the HALO Trust, a non-governmental humanitarian organization. She also pledged continued Canadian contributions for mine clearance.