In response to Russian President Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, the Government of Canada has decided to shut its ports to all Russian-owned or registered vessels.
As announced by Canada’s Minister of Transport, Omar Alghabra, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mélanie Joly, and Minister of Fisheries, Oceans, and the Canadian Coast Guard, Joyce Murray, the ban is expected to take effect later this week through orders made pursuant to the Special Economic Measures Act.
“The Government of Canada condemns Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and we will continue to take action to stand with Ukraine. We are taking steps to close Canadian ports and internal waters to Russian-owned or registered ships,” stated Omar Alghabra.
These actions are part of ongoing coordination efforts among Group of Seven (G7) partners including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, United Kingdom, and United States, as well as like-minded countries to hold Russian leadership accountable for its escalating aggression, according to a statement of the Canadian Government.
In the same direction, the UK’s government has also asked British ports to deny access to all Russian ships.
Mélanie Joly said Canada will continue to impose measures to respond to Russia’s blatant disregard of international law. “Our message is clear: Canada stands with Ukraine and its brave and resilient people,” she pointed out.
