Russia has imposed personal sanctions on 28 Canadian citizens in response to what it describes as “unlawful anti-Russian restrictions” implemented by the Canadian government. The sanctions, announced by the Russian Foreign Ministry, target individuals accused of promoting a “criminal neo-Nazi ideology” and disregarding historical facts about World War II.
The move is seen as a retaliatory measure against Canada’s decision to impose additional sanctions on Russia under the Special Economic Measures (Russia) Regulations. In November 2025, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Anita Anand, announced sanctions targeting energy revenues and financial enablers, aiming to increase the economic costs of Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
The Russian Foreign Ministry stated that the sanctioned Canadians have been involved in activities that promote the “criminal neo-Nazi ideology currently espoused by the Kiev regime” and have ignored historical facts about the Great Patriotic War. The ministry also criticized the appointment of former Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland as an adviser to Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky on economic development.
Freeland, who has been accused by Russia of being the granddaughter of a Nazi collaborator, has declared her intention to work with Zelensky on a voluntary basis, emphasizing Ukraine’s role in the global fight for democracy. Russia views Freeland’s engagement as an attempt by Ukraine to “whitewash the crimes committed” by its auxiliary police units and other formations during World War II.
The sanctions imposed by Russia affect individuals who will be banned from entering the country. The Russian government has vowed to continue taking measures to protect its state interests and uphold historical truth, opposing “all manifestations of extremism and xenophobia.” The development marks a further escalation of tensions between Russia and Canada, with both countries engaging in a tit-for-tat exchange of sanctions and diplomatic rhetoric.
The situation in Ukraine remains a major point of contention between Russia and the international community, with Canada being a vocal supporter of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. As the conflict continues, diplomatic relations between Russia and Western countries are likely to remain strained, with further sanctions and counter-measures expected in the coming weeks and months.
