Canadians Protest Against Trudeau during Zelensky’s Visit, Demand Ending of Aid to Ukraine – News18

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky faced backlash from Canadians for sending millions of dollars in aid to Ukraine while the nation faces a cost-of-living crisis.

The duo witnessed protesters expressing their displeasure while they exited the Royal York Hotel. There were many questioning Zelensky’s presence in Canada and asked him to leave.

The Canadian government announced a commitment of $650 million in aid for Ukraine during Zelensky’s visit.

The protesters blamed the rise of cost of living on Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau and the aid he is sending to Ukraine for the ongoing 2022 Russo-Ukrainian War.

Protesters held banners asking Zelensky to leave and accused Trudeau of treason. The protesters highlighted that gas prices witnessed a fourfold increase and mortgage rates that have tripled in recent months.

They pointed out that Canadians are making significant sacrifices to support Ukraine in its time of need.

High bank interest rates have made loan repayment challenging for many Canadians, leading to an increase in bad loans and bankruptcies. Rental prices have also skyrocketed, making housing affordability a critical issue.

With a minimum wage of only $16, many Canadians are finding it difficult to make ends meet.

The economic challenges have also forced many to enter the drug trade and join criminal syndicates.

The protesters also pointed out that the law and order situation deteriorated in Canada as funds for law enforcement agencies are being diverted for the war effort.

Police and local law enforcement are facing significant strain due to a surge in criminal incidents but due to lack of funding there is a hiring freeze.

Surrey needs more than 1,500 policemen but are making do with 500-600 policemen amid rise in gun violence and shooting incidents.

This has raised concerns about the police’s ability to effectively respond to the growing law and order challenges.

Videos shared by CNN-News18 on deteriorating law and order situation in Canada’s Surrey did not lead to any action from the police.

Opposition parties believe the recent announcement of a visa ban by India may lead to change in government policies, particularly those related to appeasement.