The rise of hate, anti-Semitism and far-right activity, both at home and abroad, is deeply concerning to me. That is why I am alarmed that Canada has provided training to far-right militias in Ukraine, including the pro-Nazi Azov Battalion and members of the extremist Centuria group within Ukraine’s National Army Academy, as reported by CTV News in 2021.
I believe that hate cannot be allowed to grow, and our government cannot abet its growth. I did not equate the situation in Ukraine to the Holocaust and I do not believe that the vast majority of Ukrainian people or its democratically elected leaders share the beliefs espoused by far-right militias. I sincerely regret that my tweet did not include this important context and may have resulted in harm.
I am deeply concerned by Russia’s actions, including the violation of international law as it relates to Ukraine’s territorial integrity – an independent and democratic state. I understand the concerns of Ukrainian Canadians who are worried about their friends and family in Ukraine, and I believe that Canada should use every diplomatic tool at its disposal to reduce tensions and help ensure a peaceful resolution. A war would be disastrous for the people of Ukraine, the region and the world.