The federal government is taking swift action following what Prime Minister Justin Trudeau calls Russia’s “horrific and unprovoked attack” against Ukraine.

Up to 460 additional Canadian troops are being deployed to support “Operation Reassurance” under NATO.

Trudeau soundly condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin’s actions against a sovereign nation as an attack on democracy, international law human rights and freedom. He calls the invasion of Ukraine, ” the greatest threat to European stability since World War II.”

Trudeau made it clear that the strong action Canada is taking is not against the Russian people, but against Putin and his supporters. The sanctions target 58 individuals and entities including members of the Russian elite, their family members, as well as the Wagner Group and major Russian banks. Members of the Russian Security Council are also being sanctioned including the Defense Minister, Finance Minister and the Justice Minister.

Canada is also expediting safe passage for Canadians in Ukraine to nearby countries and is prioritizing immigration to Canada of Ukrainian citizens.