The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada, together with Ukraine and Norway, will co-host Pathways to Peace: Second International Conference on Returning Ukrainian Children, Detained Civilians, and Prisoners of War in Toronto, Ontario, on September 28 and 29, 2026. The statement does not address the specific number of children involved, nor does it detail the criteria for their return. The conference aims to facilitate the safe return of Ukrainian children detained by Russian forces, as well as civilians and prisoners of war. The event will be held in Toronto, Ontario. — the full statement has further detail.
Context
This announcement represents a continuation of Canada’s engagement with the Ukrainian crisis, following media accreditation for the conference on August 24, 2026. The statement does not mention any funding commitments from Canada, Ukraine, or Norway for the conference itself. The “Pathways to Peace” designation suggests a diplomatic effort focused on negotiation and repatriation, rather than military intervention. The inclusion of Norway signals a potential role for Nordic nations known for their humanitarian efforts and experience in facilitating international releases. The conference’s second iteration indicates a sustained, if limited, Canadian commitment to this specific aspect of the conflict.
What to Watch
Should the conference achieve no tangible outcomes regarding the release of detained civilians or prisoners of war, it will likely reinforce existing skepticism surrounding Canada’s broader approach to the conflict in Ukraine. If the visit yields no progress on these issues, the statement does not specify any subsequent steps Canada intends to take. The success of the conference hinges entirely on the willingness of the Russian Federation to engage in meaningful dialogue, a factor beyond Canada’s direct control. The statement does not mention if other nations will participate.
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