OTTAWA - Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized the need for Canada and its allies to sustain "maximum pressure" on Russia. This statement comes in response to threats from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who warned that foreign troops deployed to Ukraine would be considered "legitimate targets" by Russian forces.

During a news conference in Mississauga, Ontario, Carney stated, "Mr. Putin is the cause of this war, he's the reason for the killing. He is not going to dictate the terms of the peace." He highlighted that the pressure on Russia would involve several strategies, including the imposition of new sanctions, ensuring that Ukrainian forces are adequately armed, and providing support to Ukraine during any cessation of hostilities.

Carney noted that preparations for the next round of sanctions against Russia are underway. He also mentioned that Putin has not yet recognized the necessity for peace in the ongoing conflict.

In a virtual meeting with allies, Carney expressed Canada's readiness to offer "direct and scalable military assistance" in a post-ceasefire Ukraine. Following this meeting, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that 26 of Ukraine's allies have committed to deploying a "reassurance force" after a ceasefire or peace agreement is reached. These countries have pledged to maintain a military presence in Ukraine, whether on land, at sea, or in the air.

Earlier this year, Canada pledged $2 billion in military aid to Ukraine. During his first visit to Kyiv as prime minister in August, Carney indicated that these funds would be allocated for the purchase of drones, armored vehicles, and other military supplies. He initially announced this funding in June at the G7 summit in Alberta.

Carney explained that approximately 40 percent of the military aid would be directed toward urgently needed supplies, including vehicles, arms, and medical equipment. Additionally, one-third of the funding will support purchases of items prioritized by NATO, which includes U.S. equipment, munitions, and air defense capabilities. Canada has also committed to acquiring drone, counter-drone, and electronic warfare capabilities for Ukraine.

While in Kyiv for Ukraine's Independence Day, Carney also announced $31 million in humanitarian aid and support for the country's reconstruction efforts in the coming years.