Statement by Liberal Party of Canada Leader Justin Trudeau on the situation in Ukraine

January 26, 2014

OTTAWA – The Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, Justin Trudeau, issued the following statement today on the situation in Ukraine:

“The rapidly deteriorating situation in Ukraine is extremely troubling. This indefensible, state-sanctioned violence must be condemned and should end immediately. Unless real dialogue begins between the government and the opposition, we are likely to see more senseless deaths.

“Since independence, the Ukrainian people have been on a steady path towards greater integration with Europe. Not only has President Yanukovych turned his back on this aspiration, but more importantly, he has chosen to rebuff democracy in Ukraine. He must immediately repeal the new anti-democratic laws that prohibit peaceful demonstrations and opposition. Equally important, without any further delay President Yanukovych must enter into serious negotiations with the opposition to achieve an end to this dangerous confrontation.

“The Canadian government has an obligation to work with its allies and immediately apply pressure on the Ukrainian government to negotiate with the opposition. As the Liberal Party of Canada has already indicated, this pressure should include the imposition of personal sanctions – inclusive of travel restrictions, asset freezes, and the laying of criminal responsibility – against those who have committed human rights abuses and crimes against the Ukrainian people.

“It is essential that democracy wins in Ukraine. We must recognise that the outcome in Ukraine will resonate wherever democracy and civil liberties are challenged. The Ukrainian people have consistently proven that they are on the side of democracy. I stand with them in condemning this inexcusable violence.”