At the 21st EU–Canada summit in Montreal on October 30, the European Union and Canada committed to intensifying pressure on Russia and providing sustained military, financial, and diplomatic support to Ukraine. The summit featured discussions between Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and European Council President António Costa.
A significant announcement from the summit was Canada’s intent to join the EU’s €90 billion Ukraine Support Loan for 2026–2027. This participation could enable Ukraine to procure military equipment from Canadian defense companies with European financing, thereby enhancing Kyiv’s military capabilities and fostering collaboration between Canadian and European defense sectors.
In a parallel move, the European Commission advanced plans to release the remaining €45 billion of the Ukraine Support Loan by 2027. This includes €31.7 billion earmarked for bolstering Ukraine’s defense industry and up to €13.3 billion for supporting its state budget through the Ukraine Facility and macro-financial assistance. The proposal still requires approval from the Council of the European Union, with the goal of making funds available by the end of 2027 to help Ukraine sustain essential services and defense efforts against Russian aggression.
During the summit, EU leaders underscored the urgent need for military supplies such as drone interceptors, ammunition, missiles, and air defense radars. The European Commission reiterated its dedication to ramping up European defense production and ensuring prompt delivery of supplies to Ukraine. Canada’s prospective involvement would offer an additional avenue for military equipment provision through EU-funded procurement, although details of financial contributions or agreements from Ottawa remain pending.
In a joint declaration, leaders from the EU and Canada reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. They expressed their commitment to increasing diplomatic pressure on Russia and ensuring accountability for crimes committed during the invasion. Emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive and just peace, the declaration called for adherence to international law and the United Nations Charter, alongside the safe return of Ukrainian prisoners of war, civilians, and children unlawfully deported by Russia.
The declaration also shed light on the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, highlighting Canada’s significant diplomatic role in the initiative. Beyond immediate military aid, the EU and Canada pledged to support Ukraine’s long-term reconstruction, institutional reforms, and deeper integration with European and transatlantic frameworks.