By John Ikani
Russia has in an unusual move, issued a travel advisory for its citizens, warning against visiting Canada, due to what it claims is rampant discrimination against Russians in the country.
The advisory, which was posted on the Russian foreign ministry’s Telegram channel, accuses Canada of allowing physical violence against Russian citizens, and urges any Russians currently in Canada to exercise caution in public places.
While the exact incidents of discrimination mentioned in the advisory are unclear, the timing of the warning is noteworthy.
Canada has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia, and has placed sanctions on numerous Russian officials and companies as a result.
Furthermore, last year, Canada issued a warning to its own citizens, advising them to avoid travel to Russia due to safety concerns.
Russia’s recent move to impose sanctions on hundreds of Canadian officials and public figures, including Olympians, has been seen by many as a retaliatory measure for Canada’s own restrictions on Moscow, as well as its support for Ukraine.
