**Canadian Prime Minister Steps Down as Liberal Leader**
Justin Trudeau, the leader of Canada’s ruling Liberal Party, has announced that he will step down from his position. However, he will remain in office until a new leader is chosen by the party.
Trudeau made this decision after facing mounting pressure from within his own party. This pressure grew stronger following the abrupt resignation of Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland on December 16.
As Canada’s youngest prime minister when elected in 2015, Trudeau has been a strong ally to Ukraine. He provided over $13.5 billion in assistance, including $3.1 billion in military aid.
**Canada’s Next Election**
Trudeau’s decision comes ahead of the next federal election scheduled for October 2025. However, opposition parties have pledged to bring a no-confidence vote when parliament reconvenes on January 27. This could lead to a snap election being held earlier than expected.
**International Developments**
In other news, Russian propaganda has been trying to create a story about Moldova becoming a “problematic actor.” However, the government has proposed clear solutions to avoid this crisis.
Additionally, two Russian airliners were forced to return to their departure airports due to engine failures shortly after takeoff. This has sparked concerns and criticism from officials.
**Ukraine Conflict**
In Ukraine, three Ukrainian prisoners of war were allegedly killed by Russian troops in Donetsk Oblast’s Volnovakha District. Two Russian anti-missile systems and one OSA anti-aircraft vehicle were also damaged or destroyed by Ukraine’s Navy on January 6.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for realistic discussions on territorial issues with France, while French President Emmanuel Macron has urged Ukraine to be open to negotiations.
**Russian Developments**
In Russia, a group of pro-government Slovak lawmakers plan to visit Moscow later in January. This comes as the electricity supply system in the Russian-occupied Moldovan region of Transnistria is under risk of collapse due to the halt of Russian gas flow.
The U.S. has announced planned sanctions targeting tankers carrying Russian oil above an imposed price cap and individuals working in schemes to sell crude above the cap.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com