Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement:

“Canada strongly condemns the attack on a Ukrainian military helicopter today near Sloviansk, in eastern Ukraine, which killed all on board. This act is particularly egregious as it comes only a day into the Government of Ukraine’s important ceasefire.

“On behalf of all Canadians, I extend my condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives.

“Canada calls on all parties to respect President Poroshenko’s peace plan and begin negotiating in good faith with the government in Kyiv to permanently put an end to the fighting.

“President Putin must also take action by preventing insurgents and weapons from crossing the border into Ukraine, by calling on all separatists to lay down their arms and by drawing down his own forces near the Ukrainian border. His failure to do so is inexcusable.

“Canada continues to work closely with our allies and partners, in close consultation with the Government of Ukraine, to support stability and security in the region in the face of Russian military aggression and provocation.”