Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau: Import ban on Russian oil sends a strong political signal, politicians say. (credit: Jeff Vinnick / Getty Images)

Canada is sending a strong political signal: The country is imposing sanctions on imports of Russian oil, one of Russia’s most important industries. Still, Putin is unlikely to feel this approval.

Canada wants to ban “all imports of Russian crude” in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Monday, “Although Canada has imported very small amounts in recent years, this measure sends a strong message.” According to its own statements, the country which has its own oil reserves imported almost no oil from Russia in 2020.

Trudeau on Monday attended a video conference of Western allies around the European Union and the United States. Heads of state and government emphasized their readiness for further sanctions against Russia.

Canada has already closed its airspace to Russian aircraft and imposed tough financial sanctions on Moscow. In addition, the country has promised to supply Ukraine with anti-tank weapons.