Diaspora calls on PM Trudeau to extend Operation UNIFIER in Ukraine

The Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) calls on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to extend the mandate of Operation UNIFIER in Ukraine.

UCC National President Alexandra Chyczij wrote this in a letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

"Canada’s current commitment to Operation UNIFIER extends to March 31, 2019. It is critical that Canada extends its commitment to train Ukraine’s military and security personnel at current or increased levels of participation through to 2025," the letter reads.

Chyczij notes that Operation UNIFIER, which is held for the fourth year in a row, is very successful. "As Ukraine’s military and security forces continue to defend their country against Russian aggression, they must build on the successes of Operation UNIFIER to improve their capacity and strength," she said.

Ukraine’s Defense Ministry has committed to the professionalization of its military, to meeting NATO standards, and to reaching full interoperability with NATO Allied Forces by 2020.

Much has been accomplished, however, much work remains. "As one of Ukraine’s most reliable friends and partners, we are confident that Canada will continue to play a leadership role in supporting and strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities," she summed up.

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