Canada Allows Ukraine to Utilize Donated Tanks Against Russia

Ukraine’s armed forces have received formal approval to use donated Canadian military equipment within Russian territory, as confirmed by Canada’s Department of National Defence. This decision aligns with similar permissions granted by other countries to Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.

On Thursday, Canadian officials reinforced their commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense efforts. Canada has previously donated significant military resources, including eight Leopard 2A4 tanks, dozens of armored combat support vehicles, hundreds of armored patrol vehicles, and 4,200 M72A5-C1 rocket launchers. The aid package also included various ammunition types and air defense systems.

Andrée-Anne Poulin, a spokesperson for the Canadian Department of National Defence, stated, “Ukrainians know best how to defend their homeland, and we’re committed to supporting their capacity.” She emphasized Canada’s enduring support for Ukraine, noting that the country has committed over $4 billion in military assistance since the conflict began.

Since 2022, Canada has contributed about $4.5 billion in military aid to Ukraine and has pledged ongoing support through at least 2029. This commitment illustrates Canada’s stance in the broader Western effort to assist Ukraine against the ongoing threat posed by Russian military actions.

On the same day, British officials also authorized Ukraine to utilize donated weapons in Russian territory, provided that international legal protocols are adhered to. This approval follows calls from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who recently urged the British government to ease restrictions on the usage of Western-supplied arms during a meeting with Britain’s Cabinet in July.

Germany had also previously indicated that Ukraine is permitted to deploy Western-donated weapons inside Russian territory, highlighting a trend among allied nations to relax weapon usage restrictions in response to Ukraine’s ongoing military needs.

During recent developments, President Zelensky announced the capture of Sudzha, signaling continued advances by Ukrainian forces into Russian territory. This includes a significant ground incursion into Russia’s western Kursk Oblast, which has been ongoing for about a week.

The Kursk region, which shares a border with Ukraine, is experiencing severe military tensions. In response to escalating hostilities, Russian officials have declared a state of emergency in the area and have begun evacuating thousands of local residents.

Although the specifics of military equipment usage during this offensive remain unclear, the international support being funneled into Ukraine continues to play a crucial role in its defense strategy against Russian aggression.