Statement on Ukraine

Statement on Ukraine
Len Webber, MP
Calgary Confederation

I stand with all Canadians in solidarity with Ukraine and its people.

Kyiv, the capital city of Ukraine, is home to some of my family and our history in the area goes back a long way.  While I am happy to know my family members have safely fled the city, it breaks my heart that they have had to leave.

Together with millions of Canadians and the Ukrainian community in Canada, I condemn Putin’s actions. Putin’s contemptible aggression and invasion of Ukraine is unacceptable.  Autocrats like Putin should and will be judged harshly.  His actions threaten world peace and bring death and misery to millions of innocent Ukrainians.  The world cannot afford to let tyrants and aggression like this go unchecked.

Conservatives stand ready to defend the rules-based international order against these grievous violations of international law and will support the Government of Canada and its allies in our shared objective. I support all efforts to resolve this situation as quickly and as safely as possible for the Ukrainian people.

Please know that I am closely watching the situation and along with all Parliamentarians, will be willing to take the necessary measures to protect innocent Ukrainians. The situation in Ukraine continues to evolve quickly and so it is difficult to comment on every twist and turn as the war evolves.  In fact, it is more important than ever that we speak as one voice as a nation and remain united in our resolve to deal with Russia and their leadership.

I know the people of Ukraine would prefer to remain in their homeland, but it is important Canada provide refuge to those unable to safely remain.  I am moved by the strong support for the people of Ukraine and hope Canada is able to provide quick and safe refuge to those wanting to come to Canada.

On a final note, and in line with my recent statement in the House of Commons, it is more important than ever that Canada offer itself as a source of reliable, ethical, environmentally-friendly and democratic source of energy.  No longer can the world afford to ignore the consequences of buying energy from dictators and tyrants.  Much of this war in Ukraine will be funded with money obtained from energy sales to Canada and our allies.  Unless we change course with these policies, we will only see future wars and human tragedy funded through energy trade with such countries.

As I mentioned, my family in Ukraine has moved to safety, but other families still remain in harm’s way.  Our thoughts are with them.

 

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IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING THE SITUATION IN UKRAINE:

Canadians in need of consular assistance in Ukraine should contact Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at:

Member of Parliament - Len Webber, MP