OTTAWA — Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that U.S. President Donald Trump is "creating the opportunity to end Russia's illegal war in Ukraine." Carney made this remark in a statement released on Saturday, following Trump's meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.

In his statement, Carney emphasized the importance of robust security guarantees for achieving a just and lasting peace. He expressed appreciation for the U.S. administration's willingness to provide these guarantees as part of the Coalition of the Willing's efforts. "Canada is coordinating closely with President Zelenskyy and our partners in the Coalition of the Willing to intensify our steadfast support for Ukraine and our shared commitment to its peace and security," Carney said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy did not attend the Alaska summit, which concluded without any agreements on a ceasefire or a clear path to end the conflict. This marked Putin's first visit to the United States in a decade and his first trip to a Western country since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Following the summit, Trump shifted his stance, indicating that an overall peace agreement, rather than the ceasefire he had previously advocated, is the next step toward resolving the war in Ukraine. He announced plans to hold additional meetings, including one with Zelenskyy at the White House on Monday.

Zelenskyy reported having a "long and substantive" conversation with Trump early Saturday, stating they would discuss the details of ending the conflict on Monday. Carney participated in discussions with European leaders on Wednesday and communicated directly with Zelenskyy on Monday.

The prime minister noted on social media that Canada and its partners believe it is essential for Ukrainians to determine their own future, with diplomatic efforts supported by military and economic pressure on Russia.