Queen’s Expert Jane Boulden (Political Studies) is available to speak to media about Canada’s role in reaffirming its support for a sovereign Ukraine, as it faces a heightened threat of invasion by Russian forces.

Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly is in Ukraine, and plans to meet with Ukrainian Prime Minister Deny Shmyhal and Deputy Prime Minster Olga Stefanishyna. She is also expected to visit Canadian troops stationed in the eastern European country.

“If there is any hope of deterring Russia from military action against Ukraine, it lies in the West sending unequivocal signals of its willingness to respond strongly to Russian military action,” says Dr. Boulden. “In that context, Joly's visit is an important part of a broader effort on the part of NATO members to be clear in their willingness to maintain a united front against Russia and to engage in significant punishing responses should it invade Ukraine. Thus, while important on its own terms, Joly's visit is most important as part of NATO's effort to do everything possible to encourage Russia to de-escalate the situation.” 

The Kremlin has amassed more than 100,000 troops along its border with Ukraine, prompting warnings that Russian President Vladimir Putin may launch an invasion in the coming weeks.

To arrange an interview, please contact communications officer Julie Brown ( 343-363-2763 or Julie.brown@queensu.ca) at Queen’s University News and Media Services Department in Kingston, Ont., Canada.  

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