During a working visit to Canada, Minister of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine Nataliia Kalmykova signed a memorandum of understanding with Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence of Canada Darren Fisher.

The memorandum provides for the following:

• exchange of knowledge and best practices to help Ukrainian war veterans and their families more easily adapt to civilian life;
• studying Canada’s experience in psychological rehabilitation, social adaptation and medical support for veterans;
• implementing concrete, realistic steps to improve the veterans support system in Ukraine.

The memorandum was signed in pursuance of the Security Agreement between Ukraine and Canada, signed in 2024 by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau. The support now covers not only the defence sector, but also recognises the contribution of veterans and provides them with comprehensive support.

Canada is expected to share its experience to help Ukrainian soldiers and their families overcome the consequences of injuries and illnesses caused by russian aggression.

“This memorandum strengthens our commitment to providing comprehensive support to veterans. Together with our Canadian partners, we will implement concrete, realistic and measurable steps. The exchange of experience and best practices will allow us to better provide veterans with the necessary resources, opportunities and recognition they deserve,” said Nataliia Kalmykova.

Darren Fisher stated that Canada would always stand by Ukraine. He mentioned that russia’s brutal and unprovoked war had tested the strength and resilience of the Ukrainian people. He also highlighted that the partnership would help veterans and their families adapt to civilian life.

As part of the meeting, the delegation visited the Legion Veterans Village, an innovative centre that combines medical support, housing for veterans and research in the field of veterans policy.