Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (CUCC) is proud to share that our President, Zenon Potichny, was honored to take part in the celebrations of Ukraine’s 34th Independence Day in Kyiv on August 24th, 2025.

This year’s ceremony was a powerful demonstration of unity, resilience, and international solidarity with Ukraine as it continues to defend its sovereignty and chart a path toward recovery and modernization.

Distinguished Guests and Global Solidarity

The celebration brought together Ukraine’s top leadership and prominent international guests, underscoring the strength of global support for Ukraine. Among the distinguished attendees were:

• The Right Honourable Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada

• The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence of Canada

• Keith Kellogg, U.S. Special Representative

• Pastor Mark Burns, United States

• Ministers of Defence from Sweden, Denmark, Romania, Lithuania, and Latvia

• The U.K. Minister for Veterans Affairs

Their presence sent a clear and united message: the world continues to stand firmly with Ukraine.

Canada’s Enduring Support and New Commitments

Canada has been a steadfast friend of Ukraine from the very beginning—becoming the first Western nation to recognize Ukraine’s independence in 1991. Over three decades later, Canada continues to lead by example, providing critical political, economic, and military support.

On August 24th, Prime Minister Carney announced a new aid package worth over one billion Canadian dollars. The package includes drones, ammunition, and armored vehicles, with deliveries expected in September.

This commitment is part of the $2 billion Canadian military funding package announced during the G7 summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, earlier in June. The broader package also features new sanctions aimed at restricting Russia’s energy revenues and closing loopholes in evasion tactics.

“I am proud to announce that over one billion of this sum will be directed to strengthening your arsenal through the supply of drones, ammunition, and armored vehicles, which will arrive next month,” Prime Minister Carney said in Kyiv on August 24th.

In addition, Canada will provide tens of millions of dollars for emergency medical aid, the construction of bomb shelters, support for local democracy, and cybersecurity initiatives.

A Message of Gratitude

On behalf of the CUCC community, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Canada for its leadership and unwavering support for Ukraine. From being the first to recognize independence in 1991 to standing side by side with Ukraine today, Canada’s friendship has never wavered.

Prime Minister Carney’s presence in Kyiv on Independence Day was a moving symbol of that solidarity and a reaffirmation of Canada’s role as one of Ukraine’s most committed allies.

As CUCC continues to foster stronger business and cultural ties between Canada and Ukraine, we are inspired by the unity and determination demonstrated during this historic occasion and look forward to contributing to Ukraine’s resilient and prosperous future.