Canada is imposing sanctions on 29 agents and 15 entities owned or controlled by the Russian government involved in spreading Russian propaganda related to the war in Ukraine, Global Affairs said in a news release. Among those sanctioned is Shubatovich Gasparian, the head of the international department of Russian-funded broadcaster RT. Joly made the announcement during the G20 Foreign Ministers meeting in Bali, Indonesia. “The Russian propaganda machine must be held accountable for its lies. Canada is committed to combating disinformation wherever and whenever it is found,” Jolly said in the statement. “Today, we make it clear to those who peddle deception: you will be held accountable. Canada stands with Ukraine.” Canada has now sanctioned more than 1,600 Russian agents or entities in response to Russia’s war in Ukraine. The sanctions prevent Canadians from any property dealing with those on the list, making any goods available to them or providing financial services to them, among other things. The government also announced that the import of certain gold products from Russia is now prohibited. Products include raw gold, semi-finished gold, gold dust, coin gold and gold jewellery. The announcement underscored other efforts by the Canadian government to counter Kremlin propaganda, including a website focused on countering false claims made by Russians in connection with the war in Ukraine. “Canada will continue to use this platform to shine a light on how the Russian regime is using lies to justify its illegal, unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine,” the press release said.
