KYIV, September 10 — Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a 100-year security and defense partnership in Kyiv, according to a Canadian government press release. The agreement, titled the Canada-Ukraine Strategic Security and Defense Partnership, commits both countries to long-term cooperation in defense industrial production, intelligence sharing, cybersecurity, and emergency response. The signing took place during Carney’s unannounced visit to Kyiv, his first trip to Ukraine since taking office in March 2025.
The visit coincided with the third anniversary of the liberation of Bucha, a Kyiv suburb where Russian forces were accused of war crimes in 2022.
Drone manufacturing at the center
A central pillar of the pact is joint drone manufacturing. Canada will provide CAD $50 million (about US$36 million) in new funding to expand Ukraine’s domestic drone production, building on a previous CAD $60 million (about US$43 million) contribution announced in 2024. The record shows the drone focus reflects the evolving nature of modern warfare, where unmanned systems have played a decisive role in Ukraine’s defense against Russian invasion.
The agreement also includes provisions for Canada to explore sending additional military equipment, including armored vehicles and air defense systems, though specific quantities and timelines were not disclosed.
Terms and context
The 100-year term is symbolic but legally binding, with review clauses every five years. The deal follows similar long-term security agreements Ukraine has signed with the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and other G7 nations since 2023. At a joint press conference, Carney stated that Canada would stand with Ukraine “for the long haul,” and Zelenskyy called the agreement “a historic step” that strengthens Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
The signing was attended by Canadian Defense Minister Bill Blair and Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. The event took place at the Mariinsky Palace in Kyiv.
The pact is expected to be ratified by both parliaments in the coming months. This development underscores Canada’s continued support for Ukraine amid ongoing congressional debates in the US over further aid.
