Prime Minister Mark Carney meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Rome, May 17, 2025.
Prime Minister Mark Carney has once again voiced Canada’s unwavering support for Ukraine during a key meeting in Rome. On Saturday, he sat down with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, emphasizing Canada's steadfast commitment to Ukraine’s leadership and sovereignty.
The meeting took place at Canada’s official residence to the Italian Republic, amid a busy diplomatic visit to Rome. Carney’s trip coincides with the inaugural mass of Pope Leo XIV, a significant event for the devout Catholic leader. Beyond the religious ceremony, Carney is seizing the opportunity to engage with several world leaders ahead of the upcoming G7 summit Canada will host in Kananaskis, Alberta next month.
Strong Words on Ukraine’s Peace Efforts
Carney praised Zelenskyy’s dedication to peace, referencing the recent negotiations held in Turkey. “There can be no peace without Ukraine’s full involvement, and you have our complete support,” Carney said. His words reinforced Canada’s backing of Ukraine’s role in any future peace process.
Zelenskyy, wearing a simple black short-sleeved shirt, responded with gratitude. He extended a heartfelt invitation for Carney to visit Ukraine, showing eagerness to strengthen ties further.
The Ukrainian president also addressed the recent peace talks. He pointed out the absence of Russian President Vladimir Putin, suggesting that Putin avoided direct dialogue. “We waited for Putin, but he did not come,” Zelenskyy said, describing Putin’s reluctance for bilateral discussions.
Carney expressed anticipation about welcoming Zelenskyy to the G7 summit next month, where global leaders will continue discussions on peace and security.
Diplomatic Engagements and Broader Cooperation
Earlier on Saturday, Carney met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at her official residence. His arrival at Chigi Palace was marked by a formal red-carpet reception. The historic 16th-century building, once hosting a young Mozart’s concert, greeted Carney with a 50-member honor guard and national anthems of both Italy and Canada.
The prime minister rounded off his busy day by meeting European Union President Ursula von der Leyen. The discussion focused on strengthening cooperation in artificial intelligence, clean energy, and critical minerals—sectors crucial for both economic growth and environmental sustainability.
During the talks, von der Leyen acknowledged the importance of European efforts to bolster NATO. Carney visibly responded with a gesture suggesting Canada’s shared commitment, signaling solidarity to the media.
This visit marks Carney’s first official overseas trip since his electoral victory last month. Though he briefly traveled to Europe after winning the Liberal Party leadership, this is his first formal engagement as Prime Minister. Notably, Carney missed the funeral of Pope Francis due to Canada’s federal election timeline, making the inaugural mass for Pope Leo XIV his Vatican debut.
Carney’s delegation includes 13 Liberal MPs, many representing ridings with significant Catholic populations or sharing the Prime Minister’s faith. Former cabinet minister Jean-Yves Duclos and MPs Jaime Battiste, Mona Fortier, and Marie-France Lalonde are part of the group. Senators Toni Varone and Tony Loffreda join as well.
Noteworthy indigenous leaders accompany the delegation too, including the Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak and Métis National Council President Victoria Pruden. Their presence underscores Canada’s commitment to inclusive representation on the global stage.
Canada Reaffirms Support for Ukraine
Carney’s Roman visit highlights Canada’s proactive diplomacy. By blending faith, international cooperation, and firm support for Ukraine, the Prime Minister sets a strong tone ahead of the G7 summit. The world will be watching as Canada takes a leading role in shaping the global response to ongoing crises and emerging challenges.
