Mr. Speaker, in 2018, Olena Yurchyshyn, a young Ukrainian student, passionate about learning and contributing to a democratic society, shadowed me here in Parliament as she completed her internship in my office. Since then, Olena would usually reach out to share her extraordinary accomplishments or to talk about her most recent travels. After four years, Olena's message has a different tone, one filled with fear and despair.
Today Olena pleads that parliamentarians and Canadians do everything we can to support a free and democratic Ukraine. Canada stands with Olena and all the people of Ukraine who deserve a future filled with hope and optimism.
The solidarity and generosity shown by Canada and its allies are strengthening the courage and spirit of the Ukrainian people.
I want all young Ukrainians to know that the world stands with Ukraine in this battle for their future.
Canada stands firm against terror and tyranny.
We will continue to take strong action to support Ukraine in the name of democracy, freedom and human rights.
Slava Ukraini.