The Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) President Joanne Vanderheyden issued the following statement on behalf of 2,100-member municipalities from coast to coast to coast expressing solidarity with the Ukrainian people and the Association of Ukrainian Cities:
"On February 24, 2022, Russia began its brutal attack and invasion of Ukraine. Since that time, millions of Ukrainians have been displaced and families have been torn apart while the death toll continues to rise. As we begin another month of conflict and bear daily witness to a worsening situation for the Ukrainian people, municipal leaders are renewing their expression of solidarity as they continue working with other orders of government to welcome those forced to flee, make donations, and focus support where it is most needed.
"FCM joins our international counterparts, including United Cities and Local Governments and the Association of Ukrainian Cities, in condemning the abduction, kidnapping, and killing of Mayors and municipal leaders in Ukraine. FCM further condemns all forms of targeted attacks on municipalities, civilians and local governments during conflict and war around the world. In times of crisis, local governments are crucial front-line providers of critical public services, care, support, and coordination. We applaud their courage, tenacity, and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.
"FCM has a long and proud history of partnership with local governments in Ukraine and in support of democratic institutions. We will continue to express our solidarity with our Ukrainian counterparts, and we remain steadfast in our call for an immediate end to all violence, including targeted attacks against local governments, municipal employees and public servants."
The Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) unites 2,100 local governments at the national level, representing more than 92 per cent of Canadians in every province and territory.
For more information: FCM Media Relations, (613) 907-6395, media@fcm.ca