Canada to Sanction Russia for Recognizing Breakaway Regions of Ukraine

In this photo provided by Ukrainian National Guard Press Office Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Melanie Joly, right, greets Ukrainian soldiers during her visit to the National Guard base close to Kyiv, Ukraine, on Jan. 18, 2022. The Canadian Press/AP-Ukrainian National Guard Press Office via AP

Canada says it will impose sanctions on Russia after its President Vladimir Putin recognized the breakaway regions of Donetsk and Luhansk in Ukraine on Feb. 21.

“Canada, with its partners and allies, will react firmly to this blatant disregard for international law,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Mélanie Joly in a statement.