By Caribbean News Global
OTTAWA, Canada – Mélanie Joly, minister of foreign affairs, today announced that Canada is imposing new sanctions under the Special Economic Measures (Belarus) Regulations in response to the Lukashenko regime’s involvement in Vladimir Putin’s illegal and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine.
“The world is horrified to witness the senseless violence occurring in Ukraine. Just as Canada is imposing severe sanctions on the Russian regime, Belarusian leadership must also be held accountable for enabling and supporting Vladimir Putin’s unprovoked attacks. Canada implores Alexander Lukashenko to end his support for the Russian invasion. We will not hesitate to take further action. The world is watching,” said minister Joly.
These new measures impose restrictions on 22 senior officials of Belarus’s Department of Defence who supported the attack, notably by allowing their country to serve as a launchpad for the Russian invasion.
Today’s announcement sends a clear message to president Putin’s accomplices: those who support violations of Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence will be held accountable.
“These new measures demonstrate Canada’s steadfast commitment to maintain pressure on Belarusian leadership to end its support for Vladimir Putin’s attack on Ukraine. Canada will continue monitor the situation and will work in close collaboration with its international partners,” said Global Affairs Canada in a press release.