Zelensky to Trudeau: We do not accept Canada’s decision on the Nord Stream turbines

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It was the first communication between the two leaders since Canada’s decision last week to allow the return of repaired turbines destined for Russia’s Nord Stream gas pipeline.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in a phone call on Sunday that Ukrainians will never accept Canada’s decision to return turbines to Germany “in violation of sanctions” against Russia.

It was the first communication between the two leaders since Canada’s decision last week to allow the return of repaired turbines destined for Russia’s Nord Stream gas pipeline.

Zelensky strongly criticized this decision, calling it “unacceptable”. “It’s a matter of compliance with sanctions. If there is a breach now, it won’t be long before there are more,” the Ukrainian president stressed, accusing Russia of gas blackmail and pointing out that there are alternatives for Russian gas to reach Europe. He added that the international community must intensify the pressure on Moscow and not relax it.

Volodymyr Zelensky did not fail to thank Justin Trudeau for Canada’s significant support to Ukraine in defense matters.

Canadian Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, who has Ukrainian roots, defended Canada’s position on Saturday, saying it was the “right decision” even if it was “very difficult.”

Ottawa has justified its decision to exempt turbines repaired in Canada from the sanctions imposed on Russia, underlining the need not to jeopardize the energy supply of Europe and Germany in particular.

For his part, Trudeau “reaffirmed Canada’s continued support for Ukraine amid the Russian military offensive,” according to a statement from his office that did not mention the turbines.

The Canadian prime minister also stressed in his communication with President Zelensky the importance of maintaining a climate of unity among allies and continuing strong economic pressure on Russia for its “illegal and unjustified invasion of Ukraine”, hailing the Ukrainians for their courage their.

Demonstrations against the shipment of turbines to Europe took place yesterday Sunday in Ottawa and Montreal. In Quebec, a dozen people gathered in a downtown square, holding Ukrainian flags and placards reading “Russian gas money is killing Ukrainians” and “Keep the sanctions.” There is a large Ukrainian community in Canada.

RES-EMP

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