Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has welcomed a proposed energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, crediting U.S. President Donald Trump’s efforts to halt attacks on energy infrastructure in the conflict-ridden region. However, Carney has voiced concerns over the recent U.S. deal to secure Russian diesel, warning that it could inadvertently bolster Russia’s financial capacity to continue its military actions against Ukraine.
The energy ceasefire, announced by Trump on Sunday, aims to stop attacks on energy facilities by both Russia and Ukraine, though specifics of the agreement were not immediately disclosed. Carney highlighted the potential of the ceasefire to de-escalate tensions and alleviate civilian suffering. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also expressed cautious optimism, noting that Kyiv awaits further details from the White House.
Carney, after discussions with Zelenskyy, criticized Trump’s decision to enter into a diesel supply arrangement with Moscow. He argued that this deal could undermine peace efforts championed by Canada, Ukraine, and their allies. The Canadian government echoed these concerns, indicating that the revenue from this agreement might enable Russia to continue its military operations. Carney reiterated Canada’s commitment to strengthening sanctions against Russia if needed.
While Trump defends the deal as a strategy to mitigate fuel-price pressures within the United States, it has prompted scrutiny over its alignment with existing sanctions on Russian energy imports, imposed following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. U.S. Senator Thom Tillis raised questions about the legality of the deal under current law, while Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent assured that the administration would adhere to available legal frameworks.
Despite the ceasefire proposal, Ukraine continues to report ongoing Russian attacks on its energy infrastructure. Zelenskyy has urged Russia to cease such assaults and adhere to the proposed agreement, citing over 200 strikes on electricity facilities and 17 on gas and oil sites in the past week. He also discussed with Carney the necessity of enhancing air defense cooperation, particularly concerning ballistic missile threats, and preparing for the upcoming winter.
Canada’s involvement in developing the FREYJA anti-ballistic missile system, in collaboration with European partners, was highlighted as a crucial step forward. This initiative aims to provide an alternative to the U.S.-made Patriot defense system. Additionally, Carney and Zelenskyy addressed the need for more coordinated efforts with European allies to support Ukraine’s military and air defense needs, with the European Council expected to assess Ukraine’s security funding in forthcoming meetings.