Ottawa, Aug 12
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney spoke by phone with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, underscoring that any decision on the future of Ukraine must be made by Ukrainians.
According to a statement on the prime minister's official website, the two leaders said the international borders cannot be changed by force.
Carney affirmed Canada's support for Ukraine. Last week, Canada, the European Union, and Britain announced they intend to lower the price cap for Russian crude oil, read the statement.
Speaking in advance of the Friday meeting in Alaska between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Carney and Zelensky welcomed US efforts to secure peace in Ukraine, Xinhua news agency reported.
Trump announced that he would be meeting with Putin in Alaska on August 15.
Trump announced the meeting with Putin last Friday - the day of his self-imposed deadline for Russia to agree to a ceasefire or face more US sanctions.
In response to news of the Alaska summit, Zelensky said any agreements without input from Kyiv would amount to "dead decisions".
Trump said a future meeting could also involve Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, or include both the Russian and Ukrainian leaders.
A White House official told reporters on Saturday that Trump remained open to a summit with both leaders.
US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker said Sunday it was still possible that Zelensky could attend Friday's meeting in Alaska.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Why is Canada getting involved in matters so far from its borders? They should focus on their own issues first. This looks like another attempt by Western nations to control global politics.
India has maintained a balanced position on Ukraine, and that's the right approach. We have our own challenges with neighbors - we don't need to get dragged into others' conflicts.
The oil price cap move is interesting. India has been buying Russian oil at discounts - this might affect our energy security. Our government needs to plan accordingly.
As an expat in India, I see parallels with Kashmir situation. Double standards are clear when West lectures about borders but ignores similar issues elsewhere. Food for thought!
Zelensky is right - no decisions about Ukraine should be made without Ukraine. But same principle should apply globally, including in our region. Consistency matters in international relations.
The timing of this summit is suspicious. Trump trying to score points before elections? World leaders shouldn't play with nations' sovereignty for domestic gains. Shameful if true.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.