“The humanitarian crisis unfolding in Ukraine requires all of us to unite,” International Development Minister Harjit Sajjan said in a media statement. “We know we still have a lot to do to support people affected by the conflict in Ukraine.”

The federal government said the matching contribution was in addition to the $50 million in funding provided to Ukraine for development and humanitarian assistance, and the recently announced $620 million in state loans that Canada has provided to Ukraine.

The Canadian Red Cross said the money donated would be used to support Ukraine’s immediate relief efforts, long-term recovery efforts and emergency preparedness.

“The money raised will enable the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement to respond to the humanitarian needs engendered by the nearly eight-year conflict, as well as preparedness and response efforts due to rising tensions in Ukraine,” said a statement on the Canadian Red Cross website.

Canadians wishing to donate to the Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal can do it online or by calling 1-800-418-1111.

Russia vetoes UN vote

The announcement came as Russia vetoed a UN Security Council resolution calling on Moscow to halt its attacks on Ukraine and immediately withdraw all its troops.

The veto is expected but the United States and its supporters argue that the effort will highlight Moscow’s international isolation.

The 11-1 vote – with China, India and the United Arab Emirates abstentions – represented significant but not total opposition to Russia’s invasion of its smaller and militarily weaker neighbour.

The resolution’s failure paved the way for supporters to call for a swift vote on a similar measure in the 193-member UN General Assembly, where there was no veto. There is no word yet on when an assembly vote might take place.

Unlike Security Council resolutions, General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding, but can serve as a statement of world opinion.