The Russian Foreign Ministry issued a warning to its citizens on April 20, urging them to avoid traveling to Canada due to what it says are numerous instances of discrimination against Russians, including physical violence. The advisory specifically cites Canada’s vocal support for Ukraine in the ongoing conflict with Russia, which has led to the imposition of sanctions on hundreds of Russian officials and companies, as well as wide-scale trade bans.
The advisory recommends that Russian citizens avoid traveling to Canada for purposes of tourism, education, and business relations, and urges those who are already in Canada to be vigilant, particularly in public places. The Canadian Foreign Ministry has not yet commented on the advisory.
It is worth noting that last year, Canada issued a similar warning to its citizens, advising them to avoid all travel to Russia in light of the ongoing conflict. In response to Canadian restrictions and support for Ukraine, Russia has imposed sanctions on 333 Canadian officials and public figures, including prominent Olympians.