Canadian-funded programs in occupied Ukraine accused of putting activists at risk
The Canadian government is addressing allegations that its funded programs in Russian-occupied Ukraine have endangered activists. Reports indicate that initiatives like Yellow Ribbon and Zla Mavka have led to the detention of pro-Ukrainian activists, with some reportedly disappearing into Russian custody. Canada takes these claims seriously, although specific comments on the programs were not provided due to operational security reasons.
- ▪The Canadian government is investigating claims that its programs in occupied Ukraine have put activists at risk.
- ▪Programs like Yellow Ribbon and Zla Mavka have reportedly led to the detention of pro-Ukrainian activists.
- ▪At least six activists associated with these programs have been detained since 2023.
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Open this photo in gallery:Natalka Cmoc, Canada's ambassador to Ukraine, shows a tattoo she got in solidarity with the women's resistance Zlaya Mavka, in Kyiv, in June, 2025.Olga Ivashchenko/The Globe and MailShareSave for laterPlease log in to bookmark this story.Log InCreate Free AccountThe Canadian government says it is taking seriously allegations that programs it funded to promote pro-Ukrainian sentiment in Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine put the lives of activists in danger.The Kyiv Independent reported last month that a pair of Canadian-backed programs known as Yellow Ribbon and Zla Mavka had resulted in the persecution and detention of pro-Ukrainian activists in occupied parts of southern and eastern Ukraine, where Russia’s FSB security service has a heavy presence.
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