Overview of the Promise

During his campaign for prime minister, Mark Carney pledged to defend Canada's values of peace and stability by continuing support for Ukraine and Ukrainians. This included specific commitments: working to bring home Ukrainian children stolen by Russia, building on Canadian leadership to seize Russian sovereign assets for funding Ukraine's reconstruction, and, if needed, stepping up to guarantee Ukraine's security by building on Canada's peacekeeping heritage.

Actions on Bringing Home Ukrainian Children

The Canadian government under Prime Minister Mark Carney has engaged in diplomatic efforts to address the issue of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. Official statements from the Prime Minister's Office highlight participation in international coalitions aimed at repatriating these children, including virtual meetings with allies to coordinate efforts. While progress has been made through advocacy and sanctions, the actual repatriation process remains ongoing, with no comprehensive resolution achieved as of the current date.

Seizing Russian Assets for Reconstruction

Canada has continued its leadership role in seizing Russian sovereign assets. Building on initiatives started under previous administrations, Carney's government has imposed new sanctions on Russia and allocated funds from seized assets toward Ukraine's reconstruction. For instance, during a meeting at the G7 Summit in June 2025, agreements were made to use these assets for rebuilding efforts. Recent announcements include a $2 billion aid package that incorporates funds for reconstruction, demonstrating active implementation of this commitment.

Guaranteeing Ukraine's Security

Prime Minister Carney has publicly supported robust security guarantees for Ukraine, including the possibility of deploying Canadian troops as peacekeepers if a ceasefire is reached. During his surprise visit to Kyiv on August 24, 2025, Carney met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and reiterated Canada's willingness to step up, drawing on its peacekeeping heritage. This includes commitments to provide military aid and potential troop presence to ensure long-term stability, aligning with ongoing peace negotiations involving the United States and other allies. No troops have been deployed yet, as the war continues, but the government has not ruled out this option.

Legislation and Policy Developments

No new standalone legislation has been passed specifically for this promise, but existing frameworks have been utilized. The government has built on the Special Economic Measures Act to impose sanctions and seize assets, with recent amendments proposed in Parliament to enhance asset forfeiture mechanisms for Ukraine's benefit. Additionally, budget allocations in 2025 have included provisions for military aid and reconstruction funding, reflecting policy continuity rather than new laws.

Challenges and Progress Assessment

Each element of the promise shows activity: diplomatic work on child repatriation is advancing through international forums, asset seizures are funding reconstruction projects, and security guarantees are being discussed with openness to troop deployment. However, full fulfillment depends on the war's resolution, as repatriation and security measures require a stable environment. If peace efforts stall or Canada withdraws support, this could lead to the promise being at risk of being broken. To be fully kept, complete repatriation of children, comprehensive use of seized assets for reconstruction, and, if necessary, active peacekeeping involvement must occur.

Overall Status

This promise is in progress.