Canada strongly condemns Russia’s move to recognize independence of two regions within Ukraine

Ottawa: Canada strongly condemns President Putin’s recognition of the non-government controlled areas of Donetsk and Luhansk as independent territories. This constitutes a clear violation of the Minsk agreements, the UN Charter, and a serious threat to the security and stability of the region, Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs said on Tuesday.

“Canada, with its partners and allies, will react firmly to this blatant disregard for international law. We are preparing to impose economic sanctions for these actions, separate from those prepared to respond to any further military invasion of Ukraine by Russia,” she said adding that Canada remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Earlier, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also condemned Russia’s for its aggression against Ukraine and said, “There’s no doubt the past few weeks have been difficult, that the past few years have been painful, or that there are still challenges we’ll have to face. But we cannot allow anger to divide us. Now is the time to work together – and to start healing as a nation,” added Trudeau.