Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney pledged steadfast support for Ukraine during his first face-to-face meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy since assuming office, held Saturday in Rome ahead of the inaugural mass of newly elected Pope Leo at the Vatican.

“Canada stands with Ukraine in unwavering solidarity,” Carney told Zelenskiy during their talks. “There can be no lasting peace without Ukraine’s full participation and consent—and you have our absolute backing.”

The meeting was a key diplomatic milestone for Carney, reaffirming Canada’s commitment to Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia.

In addition to his meeting with Zelenskiy, Carney also held bilateral discussions with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, President Sergio Mattarella, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, as part of preparations for the G7 summit that Canada will host in June.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump announced he will hold separate calls with both Zelenskiy and Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday, signaling renewed diplomatic outreach from Washington.

Carney’s engagements in Rome highlight Canada’s active role on the world stage and its continued efforts to strengthen ties with European partners while supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.