NEWS RELEASE – NATIONAL DEFENCE / CANADIAN ARMED FORCES
The Canadian Armed Forces are engaged around the world in a number of military operations ranging from humanitarian and relief efforts to peacekeeping to keep Canada and North America safe and to support our partners and NATO allies.
To this end, the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of National Defence, announced that up to 150 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel could deploy to Poland, with the immediate deployment of approximately 100 CAF personnel in the coming days to assist with efforts to support and care for Ukrainians fleeing violence.
CAF members will provide assistance in reception centres operated by the Polish Territorial Defence Force located across the country. These centres coordinate the onward movement of Ukrainian refugees in Poland and across Europe. The CAF will provide support, limited medical care, mental health supports and spiritual services, enabled by Ukrainian-speaking CAF personnel to assist with the immediate care and processing of refugees.
This deployment is being carried out as part of Operation REASSURANCE, Canada’s largest contribution to NATO. It is expected to last for an initial period of two months, after which point the need will be reassessed.
In support of Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada, the CAF will also act as a liaison with the Polish Armed Forces to assist with the federal response to support temporary residence for Ukrainians wishing to work and study in Canada.
In support of the newly established Humanitarian Assistance Task Force, designed to synchronize and coordinate the efforts of more than 100 multinational humanitarian agencies, the CAF will also be contributing several planning officers to this Polish-led initiative alongside our Allies.
The CAF along with our NATO allies, remain committed to supporting the people of Ukraine as they continue to defend themselves against Russia’s illegal and unprovoked attacks.
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“In the face of heinous acts of war, millions of Ukrainians have been forced to leave their homeland. For months, Poland has stepped up and helped welcome its neighbours during this humanitarian crisis. The Canadian Armed Forces are proud to contribute to the efforts of its Ally and close friend.”
The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of National Defence
“Poland and our other European allies have stepped up to protect and support Ukrainians seeking refuge,as they flee Putin’s egregious war on their homeland. We’ll continue to work with our partners, including provinces and territories, settlement organizations, and the Ukrainian-Canadian community to provide support and temporary safe haven for those who wish to come to Canada.”
The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
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