Ukraine news: Canada donating electrical transformers

The federal government is donating seven electrical transformers to repair Ukraine’s damaged power grid, CTV News reports.

The announcement comes on the same day European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visits Canada to focus on clean energy, trade and support for Ukraine.

The transformers will be supplied through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, a joint response group that helps coordinate disaster responses in the region.

“As Ukrainians continue to struggle with the consequences of Russia’s large-scale invasion, we reiterate our message to Ukraine and its people: Canada is with you. Our support will not waver,” Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said in a statement.

The equipment is part of comprehensive support to Ukraine to help address critical energy needs as the country continues to defend itself in the second year of Russia’s invasion.

“Ukrainians are not alone in the fight for their homeland. Canada will always support democracy, sovereignty and human rights. Canada will always support Ukraine,” Jolie said.

The announcement comes as von der Leyden calls on Canada to export more clean hydrogen to Europe as the bloc of countries tries to wean itself off Russian energy.

In an email to The Canadian Press, von der Leyen said Canada could also expand its exports of liquefied natural gas as an interim step.

“The possibilities are endless,” von der Leyen said. “We should definitely expand our cooperation around this energy of the future.”

Von der Leyen arrived in Canada on Monday evening. His visits to Ottawa and Kingston, Ont., on Tuesday will focus on clean energy, trade and support for Ukraine.

Canada is also announcing an additional $3 million to support demining operations in Ukraine, as well as recovery and rehabilitation efforts in the war-torn country.

The money is in addition to the $32 million in funding Canada is already providing to support demining operations in Ukraine.

With files from The Canadian Press