Ukrainian maritime drones could patrol the Arctic: Canadian official
Nataliia Tsmots, Canada’s ambassador to Ukraine, expressed hope that Ukrainian maritime drones could be deployed to patrol the Arctic region in the future. According to her, Ukrainian developments in the field of maritime drones have significant potential and could be used not only for military purposes but also for security purposes outside Ukraine.
The diplomat noted that Canada is watching with admiration the achievements of the Ukrainian defense industry, particularly in the maritime sector. She therefore expressed hope that Ukrainian maritime drones will one day patrol the Arctic.
“I really hope so, because protecting our waters is very important to Canada. Our country is surrounded by three oceans. Maritime surveillance and protection play a major role. We are all watching with admiration what Ukraine has been able to achieve. I saw a video where you target a large naval vessel and, within an hour, destroy what took years to build,” said Tsmots.
She added that, in this regard, she would not rule out such patrols in Arctic waters, since “it would make sense.” “We hope this will happen as soon as possible,” added the head of the Canadian Embassy.
The diplomat made these remarks in an interview with “Ukrinform.”
The Canadian government is discussing with Ukraine the possibility of sending some firearms—the use of which it has banned—to help deter Russia on the battlefield.
The House of Commons of the Canadian Parliament approved the allocation of 764 million Canadian dollars (about 587 million U.S. dollars) in military aid to Ukraine. It also approved the allocation of financial assistance and funds for humanitarian demining.
