Zelenskyy calls for pressure on Russia during 1st face-to-face meeting with Carney
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in Rome on Saturday, urging Canada to join global efforts to pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin into agreeing to an “unconditional ceasefire.” This meeting, the first in-person encounter between Zelenskyy and Carney, took place on the eve of Pope Leo XIV’s installation and ahead of the G7 summit that Carney will be hosting in Kananaskis, Alta., from June 15 to 17.
Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of pressuring Putin to facilitate a quick resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, which began with Russia’s invasion in February 2022. Carney expressed Canada’s commitment to supporting Ukraine and invited Zelenskyy to participate in the upcoming G7 meetings.
In addition to his meeting with Zelenskyy, Carney also engaged in bilateral discussions with European leaders to lay the groundwork for the upcoming G7 summit. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni were among the leaders Carney met with to discuss cooperation and partnership in addressing global challenges.
The peace talks in Turkey, which recently took place but failed to secure a truce, added urgency to the discussions between Zelenskyy and Carney. President Donald Trump announced plans to speak separately with Putin and Zelenskyy in an effort to broker a ceasefire. Pope Leo has also offered the Vatican as a venue for potential peace negotiations.
During his discussions with Zelenskyy, Carney reaffirmed Canada’s unwavering support for Ukraine but did not disclose specific details regarding the government’s plans. Roland Paris, a prominent expert in international affairs, highlighted the significance of Carney’s commitment to strengthening Canada’s alliance with Ukraine amidst ongoing geopolitical challenges.
The upcoming G7 summit in Alberta is expected to address the aftermath of a potential ceasefire in Ukraine, reflecting the summit’s focus on promoting peace and prosperity globally. Carney’s participation in Pope Leo’s inaugural mass not only holds personal significance as a practicing Catholic but also serves as a platform to assert Canada’s leadership role on the world stage.
Accompanied by his family and a delegation representing Canada, including members of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops and Indigenous leaders, Carney aims to showcase Canada’s credibility and principles on the international platform. The delegation includes several Liberal MPs, reflecting Canada’s diverse religious and cultural landscape.
MP Jaime Battiste underscored the importance of international cooperation in fostering peace and dialogue among like-minded nations. As Canada navigates complex global challenges, Carney’s leadership and diplomatic initiatives aim to promote dialogue, trade, and a shared vision for a peaceful future.
