The heart of Kiev, Ukraine, once a city full of hope and momentum, continues to throb, albeit understatedly, says Canadian Ambassador to Ukraine Larisa Galaza.
“It’s still a vibrant, but calm life today,” Garaza said in an interview with CTV News’ Paul Workman.
Looking back a year after Russia’s invasion, Galaza says that while Ukrainians’ resolve has never wavered, there is still much work to be done. During a particularly harsh winter, Russian missiles hit much of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, causing many to lose power and heat.
“Ukrainians are not going to come to the negotiating table,” she said. “They want to win this militarily because it is in their hands and it will have the results they want.”
Galaza, who has never left Ukraine during the entire war, says Ukrainians are grateful not just for Canada’s military support, but for its presence on the ground.
“they [Ukrainians] Say, “Thank you for being here and for not leaving us alone.” I get goosebumps every time I hear that from everyone.”
Canada pledged $1 billion in military aid to help Ukraine as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau cemented Canada’s support for “as long as necessary.”
Catch National News on CTV at 10 p.m. ET on the one-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
