If Canada wins the case, the seized An-124 cargo plane could be transferred to Kyiv to support Ukraine and serve as a symbol of accountability for Russia’s actions.

Foreign Minister Anita Anand described the An-124 as a symbol of responsibility and said Canada intends to challenge Russia’s war efforts, potentially redirecting the aircraft to Ukraine if the lawsuit succeeds.

A favorable court ruling in Ottawa would frame the jet as a emblem of Ukraine’s resilience rather than Russia’s reach.

The aircraft move is part of a broader suite of Ukraine aid and defense discussions taking shape in Canadian policy.

Canada is accelerating the final tranche of its Ukraine aid, releasing C$10 million of a C$70 million commitment to help restore Ukraine’s power infrastructure amid Russian attacks.

Anand highlighted Russia’s strikes on civilians and energy facilities and stressed expediting the final funding to repair energy grids damaged by the invasion.

The maneuver signals Canada’s ongoing effort to repurpose sanctioned Russian assets for Ukraine assistance.

Canada has spent months untangling the aircraft’s ownership and is considering legislative options to speed transfer while continuing the court action.

Context includes the broader conflict, including the destruction of Ukrainian Antonov aircraft and the evacuation of an An-124 from Ukraine to Germany, underscoring aviation-impacted war dynamics.

The seized aircraft is intended to be provided to Ukraine as part of Canada’s support amid the ongoing conflict.

Volga-Dnepr has signaled potential legal action, citing a 1989 bilateral investment agreement with Canada for damages.

Canada is pursuing forfeiture through court proceedings, notifying six entities tied to the Russian owners, with five served and efforts continuing to complete service.