Canada, allies vow new sanctions on Russia for recognizing separatist Ukraine regions
Global News
Western nations denounced Putin's announcement and said they are preparing sanctions that are separate from those that have been promised if the Russian military invades Ukraine.
Canada, the United States and other NATO allies are promising new economic sanctions on Russia after President Vladimir Putin recognized the independence of separatist regions in eastern Ukraine and ordered Russian troops to “maintain the peace” there.
The United Nations Security Council will hold an emergency meeting Monday night at the request of Ukraine, the U.S. and six other countries. Russia, which currently holds the rotating council presidency, has scheduled it for 9 p.m. Eastern time.
Ahead of the meeting, Western nations denounced Putin’s announcement and said they are preparing sanctions that are separate from those that have been promised if the Russian military invades Ukraine.
“Canada, with its partners and allies, will react firmly to this blatant disregard for international law,” Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly said in a statement.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau echoed Joly in his own statement, adding Canada “reject(s) and condemn(s) Russian decrees ordering military forces into Ukraine.”
Joly said she has discussed coordinated sanctions with her European Union counterpart, Josep Borrell Fontelles. She also discussed Canada’s response with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba.
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson also promised sanctions in a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, which are expected to be announced and imposed on Tuesday.