Trudeau talks with Ukrainian President over phone, condemns Russian strikes on Kyiv

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has condemned Russia’s latest attacks on Ukraine.

Russia launched multiple missile strikes against multiple Ukrainian cities on Monday. At least six people were killed in strikes that hit Ukraine’s capital Kyiv. It marked the biggest and most widespread Russian attacks on Ukraine in months.

Ukraine emergency services says the assault killed at least 11 people and wounded at least 64.

Trudeau spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday.

“The prime minister expressed his condolences to President Zelenskyy on behalf of Canadians to all Ukrainians regarding the tragic deaths caused by Russia’s actions,” said a statement from the prime minister’s office.

The statement also reiterated Canada’s ongoing support for Ukraine, including through continued provision of military, economic and humanitarian aid, as well as working with other partners within the G7.

Zelenskyy Tweeted about his call with Trudeau.

“Stressed the importance of a strong G7 reaction to the Russian missile terror. Ukraine needs an air shield to protect civilians and critical infrastructure,” he Tweeted.

Had a phone call with 🇨🇦 Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau. Stressed the importance of a strong #G7 reaction to the Russian missile terror. Ukraine needs an air shield to protect civilians and critical infrastructure.

— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) October 10, 2022

Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly Tweeted her response to the attacks.

Spoke with my Ukrainian counterpart, @DmytroKuleba, about the missile strikes against Kyiv and other cities across Ukraine.

This is shocking and horrifying. Targeting civilians is a war crime. We will hold Russia accountable.

Canada stands with the people of Ukraine 🇺🇦

— Mélanie Joly (@melaniejoly) October 10, 2022

Russian President Vladimir Putin says the strikes were in retaliation for what he called Ukraine’s “terrorist” actions, including an attack on a key bridge between Russia and the annexed Crimea.