Ihor Michalchyshyn

Canada is expected to close applications for temporary emergency visas offered to Ukrainians fleeing Russian aggression on Saturday — but hasn't announced whether it plans to offer long-term refuge.

Canada pledged to keep a close eye on tensions in Russia on Saturday, June 24, 2023, as armed rebel mercenaries marched on Moscow before their commander said they were halting their advance.

Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly said she does not support following European countries in barring Russians from getting visas, arguing dissidents are facing increasing danger.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is on his way to Rwanda for the first leg of a 10-day trip to confer with other world leaders as the war in Ukraine is expected to loom large over nearly all his discussions.

Canadians can now give cash or Aeroplan points to help bring Ukrainians fleeing the war with Russia to safety in Canada.

Canada will extend some settlement services to fleeing Ukrainians, but they will not receive all of the same supports as typical refugees, the federal immigration minister said on Wednesday, March 30, 2022.