Trudeau sends troops, Leopard tanks to Ukraine to support Zelensky’s war effort

Defense Minister Anita Anand revealed that four "combat ready" Leopard 2 tanks would be making their way to the war-torn nation, along with members of the Canadian Armed Forces, who will assist with training.

"Today I am announcing that Canada will supply Ukraine with four Leopard 2 main battle tanks in the coming weeks, "Anand told reporters. "This donation, combined with the contributions of allies and partners will significantly help the armed forces of Ukraine as they fight heroically to defend their nation's freedom and sovereignty."

Anand highlighted the features of the tanks, emphasizing that they would "provide soldiers with a tactical advantage on the battlefield thanks to their excellent mobility, their firepower, and their survivability."

"These tanks will allow Ukraine to liberate even more of its territory, and defend its people from Russia's brutal invasion." She suggested tanks were "essential to Ukraine's overall success and victory."

Anand went on to explain that in addition to the tanks, Canada would be deploying "a number" of armed forces members to assist with training, however, she did not specify exactly how many Canadians would be making the journey overseas.

Over the past few days, a number of countries have stepped up and announced plans to provide Ukraine with tanks. While most opted for the European Leopard 2, the United States revealed on Wednesday that it would be sending over American-made M1 Abrams tanks.

According to Fox News, while the Leopard 2 tanks are essentially ready to use by the Ukrainian military, the M1 Abrams vehicles "will take months" to make it to their intended destination due to the fact that instead of coming from US stockpiles, they will be procured fresh via the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative.