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July 11th, 2022

NDP calls for reversal of Nord Stream-1 turbine decision

NDP Foreign Affairs Critic Heather McPherson made the following statement:

"It is shocking and disappointing that the Liberal government has decided to allow the Nord Stream 1 turbines to be sent to Germany and returned to Russia. This decision goes against the sanctions Canada imposed on Russia in response to the illegal invasion and genocide in Ukraine.

Canadians expect their government to show real solidarity with Ukraine but the Liberal government’s decision is an affront to Ukrainians.

How will Canada have any legitimacy in asking other countries to hold Russia accountable for its crimes when we do not adhere to our own sanctions?

Putin claims Russia will provide gas to Germany with the return of the turbines – but we cannot believe anything Putin says. He has lied time and time again. Why would this time be any different? It is important to note that Russia does not need this turbine to supply gas to Germany.

New Democrats support the request from the Ukrainian Canadian Congress to immediately reconvene the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee to discuss the federal government's decision. I have also proposed that the Committee study Canada’s failing sanctions regime. It is clear that the Liberal government’s approach to sanctions is both inconsistent and incoherent, and Canadians deserve to know why.

This decision sets a dangerous precedent. Russia will use these pressure tactics again and again – and the Liberal government must not capitulate. New Democrats urge the Liberal government to reverse this decision.”