Canadian PM visits kyiv and blames Russia for dam destruction

The destruction of a dam in the south of Ukrainewhich caused severe flooding, was a “direct consequence” of the russian invasionestimated the Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeauwho made a surprise visit to kyiv this Saturday.

However, Trudeau did not blame Moscow for the explosion that destroyed the hydroelectric dam on the Dnieper river on Tuesday.

Both parties blame each other for the catastrophe.

The ensuing floods affected both Ukrainian-controlled and Russian-occupied areas on both banks of the river, causing several deaths and dozens of injuries.

“We have seen the damage caused by the collapse of the dam of the Kajovka hydroelectric power station. This is a direct consequence of the war waged by Russia.” declared Trudeau, accompanied by his Ukrainian counterpart Volodimir Zelensky,

“We have no doubt that the destruction of the dam is a direct consequence of Russia’s decision to invade the country.”he added.

Trudeau announced $10 million in aid to help Ukraine cope with the consequences and $500 million in additional military aid.

“In addition, I am announcing today that Canada will participate in multinational efforts to train fighter pilots, maintain and support Ukraine’s fighter aircraft program,” added.

Trudeau laid a wreath next to a wall displaying the faces of fallen soldiers in kyiv, while a military orchestra played.

Ukraine’s Deputy Defense Minister Oleksandr Polishchuk presented the Canadian prime minister with a box of shrapnel from a shell that fell in Odessa, Ukraine’s large Black Sea port city.

“It’s a little reminder of the way Ukraine suffered from Russian missile barrages,” said Polishchuk in English.

A group of Ukrainian servicemen who received training in Canada spoke with Trudeau.

“It is a great privilege to meet the prime minister,” Colonel Petro Ostapchuk said.

Source: AFP