HAMILTON, Canada

Prime Minister Mark Carney on Tuesday reaffirmed Canada's "strong" support for Ukraine, condemning Russia's latest attacks during a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

"Prime Minister Carney condemned Russia's overnight attacks on southeastern Ukraine, expressing his condolences to the victims. He reiterated Canada’s call for a ceasefire. The leaders discussed the urgent imperative for just and lasting peace," said a statement by the prime minister's office.

The statement said: "The prime minister affirmed Canada’s strong financial, military, and humanitarian support for Ukraine – including a recent major sanctions package targeting Russia’s shadow fleet and energy revenues, $2 billion in new military support, and the disbursement of a $2.3 billion loan in funding to help rebuild Ukraine’s infrastructure and public systems."

The two leaders also discussed Kyiv's recent legislative efforts to strengthen its anti-corruption institutions.

Carney "emphasized the importance of maintaining the independence of anti-corruption agencies," the statement noted.

"Prime Minister Carney and President Zelenskyy agreed to remain in close contact," it added.

For his part, Zelenskyy wrote on X that he expressed thanks for Canada's support during the phone call, noting he and Carney discussed Ukraine's current needs, including bolstering the country's air defenses and increased funding for joint drone production, as well as sanctions against Russia, among other issues.

"In Moscow they fear them (sanctions) deeply, even though they pretend it doesn’t move the needle. Our intelligence data tells a completely different story," Zelenskyy further wrote, adding: "That’s why it’s crucial to increase sanctions pressure and force the aggressor toward peace. We will ensure the necessary steps are taken."