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Zelensky appoints former Canadian deputy PM as economic adviser

05.01.2026 12:35
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has appointed former Canadian Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland as his adviser on economic development, citing her expertise in attracting investment and leading economic transformations.
Ukraines PresidentVolodymyrZelenskiy and Chrystia Freeland, Canadas former Minister of Transport and Internal Trade, shake hands during their meeting, amid Russias attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine, January 5, 2026.
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Chrystia Freeland, Canada's former Minister of Transport and Internal Trade, shake hands during their meeting, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine, January 5, 2026. Ukrainian Presidential Press Service/Handout via REUTERS

In a statement Monday on Telegram, Zelensky said Freeland’s experience would support Ukraine’s internal stability as the country seeks to rebuild and strengthen its defense.

“Chrystia is an expert in these matters,” Zelensky wrote. “She has significant experience in attracting investment and carrying out economic transformations.”

A formal decree has been published on the president’s website.

Zelensky said Ukraine must reinforce internal resilience both for reconstruction — should diplomacy succeed soon — and to bolster defense if delays in partner support prolong the war.

He thanked all those willing to assist Ukraine and work with its international partners.

Freeland, 57, has Ukrainian roots and speaks Ukrainian. Before entering politics, she worked as a journalist, including for the Financial Times in Ukraine during the 1990s. She previously served as Canada’s minister of finance and foreign affairs, and has been the country’s special envoy for Ukraine’s reconstruction since September 16, 2025.

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Source: PAP