Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has asked Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and lawmakers to help declare a no-fly zone over Ukraine. The Ukrainian president called on Canadians to imagine bombs falling on their cities and called on the Canadian parliament and government to put more economic and military pressure on Russia, the Associated Press reported.
“Justin, can you imagine you and your children hearing all these loud explosions, the bombing of the airport, the bombing of Ottawa airport? Cruise missiles fall and your children ask you, “What happened?” Zelenski asked.
The Ukrainian head of state delivered his speech via video link in front of the lower house of the Canadian parliament. He said Russia’s war against his country was aimed at destroying Ukraine and subjugating its people.
“Dear Justin, dear guests. Can you imagine receiving a daily summary of the number of victims, including women and children? You heard about the shelling. So far, there are 97 children who died in this war, “Zelenski added.
Canadian lawmakers applauded Zelensky twice, standing up before he began his speech.
The Ukrainian president thanked Canada for its humanitarian and military support and identified it as a reliable ally.
“Please block the sky, block the airspace,” Zelenski urged. “Please stop the bombing. “How many more cruise missiles must fall on our cities before you do that?” He said.
Zelensky stressed that Ukraine’s allies are deeply concerned about what is happening, but said it was not enough.
Trudeau said Zelensky inspires democracies and democratic leaders around the world to be bolder and more united.
“Your courage and the courage of your people inspire us all,” he said.
Russia has announced personal sanctions against Trudeau, Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Jolie and Defense Minister Anita Anand, who are banned from entering Russian territory. Canada, for its part, has announced new sanctions against 15 Russians. The country provided weapons to Ukraine.
“You have imposed severe sanctions, serious sanctions. At the same time, we see that, unfortunately, this did not end the war, “Zelenski stressed.
1.4 million Canadians are of Ukrainian descent, the AP notes.
Tomorrow, the Ukrainian president will address the US House of Representatives and Senate. The event will be broadcast live on the Internet.
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