Watch the video above: Canada concerned about Russia’s role in Ukraine
TORONTO – Prime Minister Stephen Harper is sending a strong message to all “countries in the region” that they should respect Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
Harper’s comments follow reports of pro-Russia gunmen patrolling streets in armoured vehicles and taking over airports in the country’s Crimea region.
Speaking at an event in Toronto today, the prime minister said Canada is very supportive of the Ukrainian people “in their desire for democracy and a better future.”
A new Ukraine government was formed after weeks of violent protests against former president Viktor Yanukovych, who has fled the country and is currently in Russia.
Harper’s comments echo a stand taken by the United States and other European countries.
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry called Russia’s foreign minister today to express U.S. concerns over military activity in Crimea that could further inflame tensions.
Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird is in Kyiv today to meet with the new Ukrainian prime minister, Arseny Yatseniuk.
WATCH: US Secretary of State John Kerry said on Friday that further Russian intervention in Ukraine would be a “grave mistake”
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