On February 13th, 2025 in Toronto, a crucial conversation about Ukraine’s future took place at The National Club, bringing together experts, policymakers, and business leaders. The “Ukraine, NATO: What’s Next” panel discussion addressed the current geopolitical landscape, Ukraine’s security needs, and the role of NATO in ensuring long-term stability.
Representing the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (CUCC), President Zenon Potichny, Director Lesia Babiak, and Executive Director Olha Mandyuk attended the event, reinforcing CUCC’s commitment to fostering strong economic and security partnerships between Canada, Ukraine, and NATO allies.
The distinguished panel featured two key voices in transatlantic security and diplomacy:
🔹 Kovaliv Yuliya, Ambassador of Ukraine to Canada
🔹 Robert Baines, President & CEO, NATO Association of Canada
Ukraine’s NATO Aspirations and the Reality of War
Against the backdrop of ongoing war, Ukraine’s NATO aspirations have never been more urgent. Ambassador Kovaliv provided a comprehensive overview of Ukraine’s position and the challenges the country faces in securing peace and stability. She highlighted three critical takeaways:
✅ A lasting and just peace is the only solution – Ukraine is not seeking a temporary ceasefire or another frozen conflict. History has shown that unresolved wars only resurface later, causing even greater destruction. A sustainable and just peace must be built on Ukraine’s full sovereignty and territorial integrity.
✅ Security guarantees are essential – Russia has repeatedly violated international agreements, demonstrating that diplomatic assurances alone are insufficient. For Ukraine, NATO membership or robust security commitments from allied nations are necessary to prevent future aggression.
✅ Urgent military assistance is needed – As Ukraine defends itself against ongoing Russian attacks, continued military aid from allies is not just helpful but vital. Delays or reductions in support could embolden aggressors and threaten the security of the broader Euro-Atlantic region.
The Role of NATO and Canada’s Commitment
Robert Baines, President & CEO of the NATO Association of Canada, reinforced NATO’s critical role in supporting Ukraine. He emphasized that Ukraine’s security is directly linked to European stability and, by extension, global security. The discussion also explored Canada’s contributions—both military and humanitarian—and the need for sustained, long-term support.
Canada has been a steadfast ally of Ukraine, providing military aid, financial assistance, and sanctions against Russian aggression. As discussions around NATO’s future role continue, Canadian businesses, policymakers, and defense experts must remain engaged in shaping the strategic path forward.
Why This Matters for the Business Community
For organizations like CUCC, supporting Ukraine extends beyond military aid—it’s about ensuring economic resilience, rebuilding industries, and fostering long-term trade relationships. Stability and security are fundamental to economic growth, and a strong Ukraine within the NATO framework would create new opportunities for investment, trade, and reconstruction efforts.
As CUCC continues to advocate for increased collaboration between Canadian and Ukrainian businesses, events like this panel discussion are instrumental in keeping the international community focused on the urgent and long-term needs of Ukraine.
Looking Ahead: The Path Forward for Ukraine and NATO
The panel concluded with a strong message: Ukraine’s security is not just Ukraine’s concern—it is a global issue. NATO’s continued engagement and support are critical not only for Ukraine but for the stability of Europe and beyond.
With Canada playing a pivotal role in diplomatic and economic support, CUCC remains committed to fostering dialogue, facilitating partnerships, and ensuring that Ukraine’s needs remain at the forefront of international discussions.
