Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has named former Canadian deputy prime minister and Toronto MP Chrystia Freeland as a key adviser on his country's economic development. The announcement was made via a post on the social media platform X on January 5, 2026.
A Strategic Appointment for Ukraine's Future
In his statement, President Zelenskyy emphasized that Freeland's new role is critical for strengthening Ukraine's internal resilience. He praised her as "highly skilled in these matters and has extensive experience in attracting investment and implementing economic transformations." Zelenskyy framed the appointment as essential for Ukraine's recovery through potential diplomacy and for reinforcing its defense should the conflict with Russia persist.
The National Post contacted Freeland's office for comment regarding the appointment. According to reports from Politico, Freeland will undertake this advisory role on a freelance basis, allowing her to contribute her expertise while managing her other commitments.
Freeland's Political and Professional Journey
This international role follows a significant transition in Freeland's domestic political career. After an unsuccessful bid for the Liberal Party leadership in 2025, which was won by current Prime Minister Mark Carney, she was appointed Minister of Transport and Internal Trade. Freeland resigned from that cabinet position in September 2025 and simultaneously announced she would not seek re-election in the next federal election, scheduled for 2029.
Following her cabinet resignation, a source close to Freeland indicated she also did not plan to complete her term as the Member of Parliament for University–Rosedale. Prime Minister Carney subsequently appointed her as Canada's special representative for the reconstruction of Ukraine, a diplomatic post without a dedicated office or staff. A spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office stated her duties would involve collaborating with Ukrainian officials on economic rebuilding and liaising with Canadian business, academic, and community leaders. In this capacity, she reports directly to PM Carney.
Balancing Multiple High-Profile Roles
Freeland's appointment by Zelenskyy adds another layer to her already busy schedule. In November 2025, the 56-year-old was announced as the next Warden of Rhodes House and CEO of the Rhodes Trust, a prominent U.K.-based global educational charity. Freeland, herself a Rhodes Scholar who earned a master's degree in Slavonic Studies from Oxford University, is expected to relocate to Oxford, England, to begin this role in July 2026.
Her deep personal connections to Ukraine are seen as a significant asset in her new advisory position. Freeland is of Ukrainian descent on her mother's side, speaks the language fluently, and has been a longstanding advocate for the country and a vocal critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, even prior to her entry into politics.
Zelenskyy's announcement coincided with Prime Minister Mark Carney's planned diplomatic travel to Paris for meetings with European leaders focused on ending the Russia-Ukraine war, highlighting the ongoing coordination between Canadian and Ukrainian leadership on these critical issues.
