"What a joke": Canadians share mixed reaction to Trudeau's $650M aid for Ukraine
Canadians are reacting after the federal government said today it will pledge $650 million in aid for Ukraine to support it against the Russian aggression.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the announcement on Friday, and he was joined by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Parliament.
“The toll of this war on the mental health and well-being of Ukrainians is immeasurable. So today, we are providing funding to support mental health care in Ukraine, as we can continue to applaud your tremendous leadership in these difficult,” stated Trudeau.
Reactions to the announcement were mixed on social media, as some Canadians criticized the government spending, especially at a time when many in the country are struggling to pay their own bills.
“Trudeau spending our kids [sic] money again,” wrote one user on X. “Unaudited spending that will benefit no Canadian.”
Trudeau back to spending our kids money again. $1.3 billion to “combat climate change in developing countries” and $650 million to Ukraine. Unaudited spending that will benefit no Canadian.
— diabolicsystem (@diabolicsystem) September 22, 2023
One individual suggested Canadians should “stop paying [their] taxes in protest.”
650,000,000 to fucking ukraine. Canadians stop paying your taxes. Ask employers to stop deducting income tax portion on your checks and at the end of the year file nil. The CRA doesn’t have resources if enough Canadians do it. It’s a form of protest they can’t counter or ignore
— Jan M (@JanMeatloaf) September 22, 2023
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“So, mans really hates Canadians that much?” wrote another X user.
So, mans really hates Canadians that much? He wants to tax grocery stores, which would inevitably get passed on to the already financially stressed consumer, but as soon as Ukraine comes calling… pic.twitter.com/PyUa9DnOav
— Zerps (@_MLee_) September 22, 2023
Another commenter expressed their frustration as “Canadian families have to go to food banks” and are struggling to pay the bills.
How many $ multi millions are you going to stuff in Zelensky’s suitcase today to cart back to Ukraine , while Canadian families have to go to food banks & face homelessness & bankruptcy?? Focus on cleaning up your mess before throwing stones at the Opposition
— 🇨🇦TraumaNurse (@TraumaaaNurse) September 22, 2023
“What a joke! Millions living here can’t afford housing or food but just keep doling it out!” read one comment.
What a joke! Millions living here can’t afford housing or food but just keep doling it out!
— Greg Ralla (@RallaGreg) September 22, 2023
“That’s great and all but how about working on lowering the rising housing, Fuel, and food costs in Canada,” said one critic.
That’s great and all but how about working on lowering the rising housing, Fuel, and food costs in Canada maybe just maybe your home country should come first in the grand scheme of things
— The duck behind the slaughter (@SawatzkyTristin) September 22, 2023
Others, however, had more positive things to say about Canada’s continued support towards Ukraine.
“I am very proud to be Canadian and having my federal government supporting the brave people and military of Ukraine,” wrote an X-user.
Here here!!! I am very proud to be Canadian and having my Federal government supporting the brave people and military of Ukraine 🇺🇦 fighting against the tyrannical ruskie invader.
— Scorpio 🇨🇦🇺🇦👍 (@tm8093) September 22, 2023
“As one Canadian who stands behind her Prime Minister, I stand with you and Ukraine,” wrote another.
As one Canadian who stands behind her Prime Minister, I stand with you and Ukraine. Thank you for coming to speak to our Parliament. Thank you for staying strong for your country against Putin. Never give up. Against all odds, never give in. We are with you Mr. President.🇺🇦🇨🇦
— My Bluebird Flies Forever (@FlyingStronger) September 22, 2023
“I am very happy with Canada’s support of Zelenskyy’s Ukraine,” said someone else.
I am very happy with Canada’s support of Zelenskyy’s Ukraine.
— Jonathan Wexler (@JonathanGWexler) September 22, 2023
Canada has provided nearly $9 billion in military, financial, and humanitarian support to Ukraine since the war began over a year ago.
Trudeau noted that the $650 million is part of “a longer-term multi-year commitment that provides predictable, steady support to Ukraine.”
“It will include $650 million over three years for 50 armoured vehicles, including medical evacuation vehicles that will be built by Canadian workers in London, Ontario.”
With files from Imaan Sheikh