Russian President Vladimir Putin has sanctioned Alberta Premier Danielle Smith.
“I understand both myself and former Premier Ed Stelmach have been sanctioned by @KremlinRussia_E. My response to Putin: we will be announcing more funding and supports for Ukrainian refugees later today,” tweeted Smith.
“My response to Europe: Free yourselves of Russian energy. Alberta is ready to help! I’m planning a trip to Germany soon to talk about de-leveraging Russia’s hold over European markets for generations.”
Smith was one of one hundred new Canadians to be sanctioned on Monday.
“Among them are high-ranking officials, businessmen, activists of numerous Probander organizations, media and financial structures that are directly involved in the formation of an aggressive anti-Russian course,” Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated.
Also on Monday, Canada sanctioned 23 Russians and announced it will give Ukraine another $500 million foreign aid package.
“Canada continues to support Ukraine as it defends its territory, sovereignty, and independence from Russia. This additional military assistance will support Ukrainians as they bravely continue to fight against Vladimir Putin’s illegal invasion, while these new sanctions will put added pressure on those who support these acts of war,” said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Canada has sanctioned nearly 1,500 Russians since Russia invaded Ukraine. That list includes police officers and government security officials.
The sanctions continue to mount for each country. In April, Putin sanctioned 61 Canadians, as reported by the Canadian Press. That list included former Alberta premier Jason Kenney.
“Honoured to be included in Putin’s latest blacklist of sanctioned Canadians! My only question: what took so long,” Kenney said at the time.
In April, Trudeau said the latest round of sanctions would not deter Canada.
“This does not weaken our resolve one whit from doing everything we can to stand up for Ukraine and pushing back hard against Vladimir Putin’s murderous regime,” he said.
