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Subject: Automatic reply: [Non-DoD Source] Last year Viktor Orbán said It was up to Biden to decide when peace will materialize. Now he is meeting with Xi to discuss a potential Ukraine peace deal???
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U.S. House Speaker calls Canada's failure to meet NATO target ‘shameful’ I Power & Politics
CBC NewsPoilievre won't commit to NATO 2% target, says he's 'inheriting a dumpster fire' budget balance
CBC News 
Ferry de Kerckhove – Biography
Ferry de Kerckhove was born in Belgium in 1947. Prior to migrating to Canada, he did his military service in the Armed Corps of Belgium where, at 18, he commanded a platoon of tanks. He has a B.Soc. Sc. Honours in Economics, an M.A. in Political Science from the University of Ottawa and pursued Ph.D. Studies at Laval University in Québec City.
After working as an intern at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Ferry de Kerckhove became a Researcher at the Québec Centre for International Relations and then later headed up the International Security Section at the Canadian Institute for International Affairs (Québec section).
In September 1973, Ferry de Kerckhove entered the Canadian Foreign Service. After a stint in European Affairs, he was posted as Third Secretary to the Canadian Embassy in Tehran. When Ferry de Kerckhove returned to Canada in 1976, he became Assistant Secretary, Inter-Departmental Committee on External Relations then moved to East European Affairs (Yugoslavia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria and Albania). From 1978 to 1981, he was responsible for Canada-France relations. From 1981 to 1985, he was Economic Counsellor at the Canadian Delegation to NATO.
Back in Canada, Ferry de Kerckhove became Deputy Director of the Political and Strategic Analysis Division, then Director of the Economic and Trade Analysis Division in the Policy Planning Bureau. In 1989, he became Director, Economic Relations with Developing Countries Division. In September 1992, he was posted to Moscow as Minister and Deputy Head of Mission.
Ferry de Kerckhove returned to Ottawa in September 1995 to become Associate Chief Air Negotiator. In January 1996, he became Deputy Head of the Policy Branch and Director-General, Federal-Provincial Relations in Foreign Affairs and International Trade. He remained in this position until being named Canada s High Commissioner to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in August 1998. He spent three years in Islamabad. On September 13, 2001, Ferry Ferry de Kerckhove presented his credentials as Ambassador to the Republic of Indonesia. He was also accredited to Timor Leste.
Ferry de Kerckhove returned to Ottawa in September 2003 and joined the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Ottawa as a Canadian Center for Management Development Diplomat in Residence.
On August 9th, 2004, he returned to the Department of Foreign Affairs and became Director General, International Organizations. In July 2006, he added to his responsibilities the function of Personal representative of the Prime Minister for Francophonie.
From September 10th 2008 to September 10 2011, Ferry de Kerckhove was in Cairo as ambassador to the Arab Republic of Egypt.
He retired from the Foreign Service on September 23d, 2011. He is a Senior Fellow at the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, where he teaches part-time, as well as at York University’s Glendon College. He is a former Executive Vice-President and member of the Board of Directors of the Conference of Defence Associations Institute; he is author of two editions of the Institute’s Strategic Outlook for Canada 2015 and 2016 (as well as co-author of previous editions)he is a Fellow of the Canadian Global Affairs Institute. He is an advisor to the Canada Arab Institute. He is a former board member of WIND Mobile Canada. He is President of Golden Advice Inc.
Ferry de Kerckhove has published numerous papers on international relations as well as on the relationship between the Muslim world and the West in specialized journals. He is a regular commentator on international issues on radio, television and newspapers.
From: PMO-CPM <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Thu, Jul 11, 2024 at 2:31 PM
Subject: News Release
To: <PM_AN_E@list.pm.gc.ca>
July 11, 2024
Washington, D.C., United States of America
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today concluded his participation in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Summit in Washington, D.C., United States of America. A cornerstone of transatlantic security for 75 years, the NATO Alliance has a critical role in upholding democracy, peace, security, and the rules-based international order. Today, the Alliance stands stronger and more united than ever.
Canada was a founding member of NATO in 1949. Since then, we have deepened our role in the Alliance by participating in nearly every NATO operation. Since 2015, Canada is among the top five NATO Allies when it comes to absolute spending increases on defence. In 2017, we released a plan to ensure long-term, predictable funding for investments in new capabilities like warships, aircraft, and armoured vehicles, along with a strong focus on supporting and caring for Canadian Armed Forces members. As we move forward, one of the most urgent and important tasks we face is in the Arctic and Northern regions, where the changing physical and geopolitical landscapes have created new threats. To tackle these threats, assert Canada’s sovereignty in the Arctic, and uphold continental defence, we invested around $38 billion in modernizing NORAD, in partnership with the United States. Building on our continued investments, Canada released Our North, Strong and Free: A Renewed Vision for Canada’s Defence earlier this year, which invests $73 billion in defence and security over the next two decades, including significant investment in the Arctic.
One of the main areas of investment identified in Our North, Strong and Free was underwater surveillance capability. With the longest coastline in the world, underwater surveillance capability is crucial to Canada’s national security. That is why, while at the Summit, Canada announced its first step toward the procurement of up to 12 conventionally powered, under-ice capable submarines, and the launch of the process to formally engage industry on this acquisition. This procurement is an important step in implementing Canada’s renewed vision for defence, and this investment will help keep our three coastlines safe and secure. Canada also signed a trilateral letter of intent with Germany and Norway to establish a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening maritime security co-operation in the North Atlantic in support of NATO’s deterrence and defence.
As we continue to implement Our North Strong and Free through further investments, Canada expects to reach NATO’s 2 per cent of GDP spending target by 2032. We have also committed to a regular cycle of review of Canada’s defence policy, including a new defence policy update in 2028. Through that process, we will continue to explore opportunities to further increase defence spending in a manner that protects Canada and advances our strategic interests.
Canada and NATO have also long recognized that climate change risks global stability, security, and defence – including in the warming Arctic – opening a new arena of competition that our adversaries are eager to exploit. On the margins of the Summit, Prime Minister Trudeau announced an enhanced trilateral partnership with the United States and Finland, called the Icebreaker Collaboration Effort (ICE Pact). This new partnership builds on the world-class expertise of our three countries and will further strengthen our abilities to produce best-in-class polar capable vessels. This increased co-operation will ensure peace and prosperity in the Arctic and polar regions, create good-paying jobs, foster scientific research, and help meet emerging defence and security challenges.This partnership will provide the basis for like-minded nations to increase their polar capabilities to uphold international rules, norms, and standards in the Arctic and Antarctic regions for generations to come.
Allies were joined by the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, at a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council. Building on Canada’s longstanding support for Ukraine, the Prime Minister committed further assistance so that Ukraine can continue to defend its freedom, including over $500 million in additional military assistance funding. Our support is as follows:
- Committing an additional $500 million in military assistance to Ukraine, as part of NATO’s pledge of long-term security assistance for Ukraine. This includes almost $444 million to Canada’s Department of National Defence to support the costs of military equipment, assistance, and training for Ukraine’s Armed Forces as well as over $56 million for the NATO Comprehensive Assistance Package (CAP) Trust Fund for Ukraine to help rebuild the Ukrainian security and defence sector and advance Ukraine’s transition toward full interoperability with NATO. Canadian funding through the CAP also provides equipment for women in Ukraine’s Armed Forces. These additional funds complement Canada’s existing military assistance to Ukraine, for a total of $1.1 billion this year.
- Supporting the launch of NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine, which will co-ordinate the provision of military training, equipment, and logistical support.
- Allocating up to $389 million to enhance F-16 pilot training through the Ukraine Defense Contact Group Air Force Capability Coalition. Sourced through previously announced military funding, this commitment will support training for pilots in Ukraine’s Armed Forces as well as provide critical equipment to support Ukraine’s safe operation of F-16s.
Canada also signed the Ukraine Compact, a joint statement with G7 countries and partners, that reconfirms enduring support for Ukraine’s self-defence and deterrence capabilities.
During his visit, Prime Minister Trudeau also advanced Team Canada efforts to promote the Canada-United States relationship. On the margins of the Summit, he met leaders of the United States Senate, members of the House of Representatives, state governors, as well as American business leaders to strengthen our bilateral partnerships, including to increase trade and investment, scale up our cross-border supply chains, support our manufacturing sectors, create good middle-class jobs, and accelerate the transition to clean energy. Team Canada is promoting and defending Canada’s interests in and with the United States – working to build a better, fairer, and more prosperous future for Canadians and Americans alike.
While in Washington, Canada and the United States also marked a key milestone in the negotiations to modernize the Columbia River Treaty. Our two countries have reached an agreement-in-principle that will enable us to draft the terms of a modernized Treaty that will protect communities from flooding, advance clean energy, and promote Indigenous priorities, including the environment. Canada, in partnership with the Province of British Columbia, the Ktunaxa, the Secwépemc, and the Syilx Okanagan Nations, will continue to work toward a modernized Treaty that supports a healthy and prosperous Columbia River Basin.
Throughout the Summit, the Prime Minister met with numerous Allied leaders to collaborate on mutual priorities and reaffirm Canada’s commitment to strengthening shared defence and security partnerships. Along with collective defence and security, Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, and partnerships with the Indo-Pacific and the European Union, there were also discussions about the importance of countering the rise of mis- and disinformation, addressing threats from emerging technologies, strengthening climate change security, and integrating the Women, Peace and Security Agenda into collective work. With fellow Allies, Canada pledged to expand the defence industrial capacity, including by encouraging joint procurement of military equipment, accelerating the adoption of new technologies, and more.
Prime Minister Trudeau also thanked the Secretary General of NATO, Jens Stoltenberg, for his leadership and collaboration over the past 10 years and wished him the best in his future endeavours after his term as Secretary General comes to an end this fall. The Prime Minister welcomes his successor, Mark Rutte, and looks forward to working with him to further strengthen the Alliance.
Quote
“For 75 years, NATO has been a cornerstone of transatlantic security – an Alliance united by the values of freedom, justice, and the rule of law. As threats to peace and security become increasingly complex, Canada and our government stand ready to step up. As we wrap up this year’s NATO Summit, we will strengthen our work to defend peace, protect democracy, and build a better, fairer, and more prosperous world for everyone.”
— The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
Quick Facts
- At the Summit, NATO Allies were joined by international partners, including Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and the European Union.
- In Washington, Prime Minister Trudeau had bilateral meetings with the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the Prime Minister of Estonia, Kaja Kallas, the President of Latvia, Edgars Rinkēvičs, the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Dick Schoof, the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Christopher Luxon, the President of the Republic of Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol, and the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Keir Starmer.
- The Prime Minister also provided opening remarks at an event to celebrate the newly accredited NATO Climate Change and Security Centre of Excellence (CCASCOE) located in Montréal, Quebec, for which Canada is the host nation. Climate change is a defining challenge for Canada, NATO, Allies, and other partners, and CCASCOE will serve as an international hub for cutting-edge applied interdisciplinary climate change research.
- The modernized Columbia River Treaty will ensure continued flood risk management and co-operation on hydropower for the Columbia River, while incorporating important provisions that were not considered in the original agreement, such as ecosystem health and Indigenous cultural values.
- Seventy-five years ago, the North Atlantic Treaty was signed in Washington, D.C., on April 4, 1949, establishing the NATO Alliance, of which Canada is a founding member.
- Current Canadian contributions to NATO include:
- Supporting NATO assurance and deterrence measures in Central and Eastern Europe through Operation REASSURANCE. With approximately 1,500 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members currently deployed, it is Canada’s largest international military operation. Canada has been leading the NATO multinational Battlegroup, soon-to-be Brigade, in Latvia since 2017. In July 2023, Prime Minister Trudeau announced the renewal and expansion of Operation REASSURANCE, committing $2.6 billion to a three-year mandate, with up to 2,200 CAF troops continuously deployed.
- Deploying His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Charlottetown to join and assume flagship duties of Standing NATO Maritime Group 2 (SNMG2) as part of Operation REASSURANCE in the Mediterranean Sea. The Royal Canadian Navy’s involvement in SNMG2 demonstrates Canada’s continued participation in NATO and strengthens military co-operation with our Allies and partners in the region.
- Hosting the NATO Climate Change and Security Centre of Excellence, in Montréal, Quebec, and NATO’s North American Regional Office of the Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic, in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
- Continuing to support training and capacity-building efforts in the Middle East under Operation IMPACT, including through NATO Mission Iraq, which was set up under Canadian command, and contributing to lasting security and stability in the country.
- Providing CAF personnel support to the NATO-led international peace support operation in Kosovo through Operation KOBOLD.
- Since 2022, Canada has committed over $19.5 billion in multifaceted support to Ukraine. This includes $4.5 billion in military aid and equipment donations, such as Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks and an armoured recovery vehicle, armoured combat support vehicles, anti-tank weapons, and other arms and equipment. Other assistance includes $12.4 billion in financial assistance, $352.5 million in humanitarian assistance, $442 million in development assistance, and over $210 million in security and stabilization programming.
Related Products
- Backgrounder: Standing together with Ukraine through victory and beyond
- Washington Summit Declaration
- Canada, Finland, and the United States joint statement on ICE Pact
- Statement by the Prime Minister on an agreement-in-principle reached between Canada and the United States on the Columbia River Treaty
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PMO Media Relations: media@pmo-cpm.gc.ca
This document is also available at https://pm.gc.ca
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From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos333@gmail.com>
Date: Thu, Jul 11, 2024 at 3:35 PM
Subject: Last year Viktor Orbán said It was up to Biden to decide when peace will materialize. Now he is meeting with Xi to discuss a potential Ukraine peace deal???
To: Greta.Bossenmaier <Greta.Bossenmaier@hq.nato.int>, Jens.Stoltenberg <Jens.Stoltenberg@hq.nato.int>, pm <pm@pm.gc.ca>, Melanie.Joly <Melanie.Joly@parl.gc.ca>, dominic.leblanc <dominic.leblanc@parl.gc.ca>, mcu <mcu@justice.gc.ca>, fin.minfinance-financemin.fin <fin.minfinance-financemin.fin@canada.ca>, <ps.ministerofpublicsafety-ministredelasecuritepublique.sp@ps-sp.gc.ca>, Bill.Blair <Bill.Blair@parl.gc.ca>, ragingdissident <ragingdissident@protonmail.com>, Jason Lavigne <jason@yellowhead.vote>, jagmeet.singh <jagmeet.singh@parl.gc.ca>, pierre.poilievre <pierre.poilievre@parl.gc.ca>, Katie.Telford <Katie.Telford@pmo-cpm.gc.ca>, <DerekRants9595@gmail.com>, wayne.eyre <wayne.eyre@forces.gc.ca>, National Citizens Inquiry <info@nationalcitizensinquiry.ca>, Michael.Duheme <Michael.Duheme@rcmp-grc.gc.ca>, rob.moore <rob.moore@parl.gc.ca>, John.Williamson <John.Williamson@parl.gc.ca>, Marco.Mendicino <Marco.Mendicino@parl.gc.ca>, darrow.macintyre <darrow.macintyre@cbc.ca>, news-tips <news-tips@nytimes.com>, Newsroom <Newsroom@globeandmail.com>, <AWaugh@postmedia.com>
Cc: nia_ig.fct <nia_ig.fct@navy.mil>, <nia_ig@navy.mi>, <ugyfelszolgalat@bm.gov.hu>, <Was.missions@kum.hu>, washington field <washington.field@ic.fbi.gov>, blaine.higgs <blaine.higgs@gnb.ca>, martin.gaudet <martin.gaudet@fredericton.ca>, Mark.Blakely <Mark.Blakely@rcmp-grc.gc.ca>, premier <premier@gov.ab.ca>, Office of the Premier <scott.moe@gov.sk.ca>, premier <premier@gov.bc.ca>, premier <premier@ontario.ca>, premier <premier@gov.pe.ca>, premier <premier@gov.yk.ca>, premier <premier@gov.nt.ca>, premier <premier@gov.nl.ca>
China angered by NATO's charge that it's a 'decisive enabler' of Russia's war in Ukraine
Hungary signed off on NATO statement but doesn't want alliance to become 'anti-China'
China on Thursday criticized a draft statement from the NATO summit in Washington, D.C., that described it as a "decisive enabler" of Russia's war effort in Ukraine.
Beijing continues to pose systemic challenges to Europe and to security, the planned statement also said.
Outgoing NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said this week at a news conference in Washington that China "is propping up Russia war's economy" in what he termed a "major strategic shift."
A spokesperson for the Chinese mission to the European Union described the draft as "full of Cold War mentality and belligerent rhetoric, and China-related content full of provocations, lies, incitement and smears."
"China's core position on the Ukraine issue is to promote peace talks and political settlement, which has been widely recognized and appreciated by the international community," said the spokesperson.
China has broken with the United States and its European allies over the war in Ukraine, refusing to condemn Russia's invasion or even to refer to it as an act of aggression in deference to Moscow. Its trade with Russia has grown since the invasion, at least partially offsetting the impact of Western sanctions.
WATCH l Retired major, a former NATO official, on the alliance's uncertain future with U.S.:
Strong NATO is ‘good for the United States,’ whether Biden or Trump wins: NATO secretary general
Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jin said at a regular press briefing Thursday that the county's trade with Russia is legitimate.
"On the Ukraine crisis, NATO hyped up China's responsibility. It makes no sense and comes with malicious intent," said Lin. "We urge NATO to reflect on the root cause of the crisis and what it has done, and take concrete action to de-escalate rather than shift blame."
Chinese troops in Belarus for drills
Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping attended a meeting of leaders or top officials from the 10 Shanghai Co-operation Organization countries in Kazakhstan.
This week, Chinese troops are in Belarus for joint drills near the border with Poland, a NATO member. The exercises are the first with Belarus, an ally of Russia, with which it shares a single-party system under President Alexander Lukashenko, whose regime cracked down brutally on mass protests against his rule in 2020. Lin described the joint training as a normal military operation that is not directed at any particular country.
Beijing put forward a 12-point paper more than a year ago that set out general principles for ending the war, but did not get into specifics. It received a lukewarm reception at the time in both Russia and Ukraine.
Chinese officials on Thursday also repeated charges that NATO has expanded its presence to the Asia-Pacific Region, saying it disrupts the prosperity and stability of the region.
Leaders of Japan, South Korea, New Zealand and Australia are in attendance at the NATO summit in the U.S., having forged stronger ties with the security alliance amid rising concerns over China's aggressions in the South China Sea.
NATO member Hungary hasn't specifically commented on the draft statement, but Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto told Hungary's state television on Thursday it does not want, and will not support, NATO becoming an "anti-China" bloc.
Earlier this week, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban paid an unexpected visit to Beijing, meeting with Xi to discuss a potential Ukraine peace deal.
Hungary has become an important trade and investment partner for China, in contrast with many other European nations, who are seeking to become less dependent on Beijing.
With files from The Associated Press
From: PMO-CPM <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Thu, Jul 11, 2024 at 12:53 PM
Subject: Readout
To: <PM_AN_E@list.pm.gc.ca>
July 11, 2024
Washington, D.C., United States of America
Yesterday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, on the margins of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Summit in Washington, D.C., United States of America.
The Prime Minister reiterated his condemnation of Russia’s increased indiscriminate attacks on civilians, including Russia’s recent abhorrent attack on Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital in Kyiv, Ukraine, and he offered further support in the wake of these attacks. He also underscored how these horrific attacks have only served to further strengthen NATO’s unity and resolve in support of Ukraine as Russia continues its unjustifiable war of aggression.
Prime Minister Trudeau reaffirmed Canada’s ongoing and unwavering support for Ukraine. He noted Canada’s commitment to provide an additional $500 million in military assistance to Ukraine as part of NATO’s Pledge of Long-Term Security Assistance for Ukraine, as well as further support to enhance F-16 training for Ukrainian pilots through the Ukraine Defense Contact Group Air Force Capability Coalition.
The leaders also exchanged views on Ukraine’s efforts toward a just and sustainable peace. They noted the need to continue building on the success of the recent Summit on Peace in Ukraine in Lucerne, Switzerland, on June 15 to 16, 2024, including Canada’s commitment to host a Ministerial event on Working Group Four to discuss the return of prisoners of war, unlawfully detained civilians, and illegally deported children.
The leaders discussed progress that has been made to provide critical assistance to Ukraine, including at this year’s NATO Summit. They also noted Ukraine’s progress as it continues on its path toward Euro-Atlantic integration and NATO membership.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Zelenskyy reaffirmed their intention to remain in close and regular contact.
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Monday 6 May 2019
Voters everywhere are in no mood for the same-old
David Raymond Amos @DavidRayAmos
Replying to @DavidRayAmos @Kathryn98967631 and 47 others
Methinks the polls are saying that most Canadians would be satisfied with a Conservative minority N'esy Pas?
https://davidraymondamos3.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/
Voters everywhere are in no mood for the same-old
The Canada Votes newsletter is your weekly tip-sheet as we count down to Oct. 21.
Reading this online? Sign-up for the newsletter and receive it every Sunday.
Voters open to something different
Vassy Kapelos, host of Power & Politics
What does a byelection in Nanaimo-Ladysmith have in common with a Ukrainian comedian?
More than you might think. Or nothing. Bear with me for a few minutes.
The byelection tomorrow will be another window for something "different" to happen. And when I say "different," I mean something other than the typical outcome.
If you've been paying attention to the results of some recent provincial elections (and international ones, too), you'll notice small changes that have the potential to turn into something bigger.
In New Brunswick's provincial election back in September, voters showed they wanted change. OK, that's not unusual. What was unusual is where many of them chose to park their votes.
New Brunwsickers voted in a minority Conservative government - with the Greens and the People's Alliance of New Brunswick winning three seats apiece and holding the balance of power.
Last month, P.E.I's election saw another vote for change. Despite the economy's positive performance, voters in that province turfed the governing Liberals and voted in a Conservative minority government, with the Greens forming the Official Opposition.
As two former premiers from those provinces told me, voters increasingly are looking beyond the usual binary choice between voting Liberal or Conservative.
Is something going on here? If so, what?
It's hard to know, and I hesitate to use the term 'populism' because it conveys so many different things to different people right now. But what I do see is a clear appetite for change, anxiety about the status quo and a desire among a growing number of voters to see less-traditional options as vehicles for that change - a way to reject the status quo.
Former New Brunswick premier Brian Gallant, who was turfed in September's election, told me recently it would be a big mistake for federal parties to ignore this trend.
So what does that mean for Monday's byelection? I don't know. I gave up on predicting elections back in 2015, when I told a group of much more senior reporters that there was no way Albertans would ever vote for change. (Very smooth move on my part.)
But the Greens have a shot, and a decent one in Nanaimo, as my colleague Éric Grenier points out.
According to Éric's poll tracker, the Greens are just six points behind the NDP nationally. The Greens have struggled (as they did in P.E.I.) to convert that popular support into actual wins. But along with the newly-formed People's Party of Canada (helmed by ex-Tory Maxime Bernier), they certainly throw something different into the mix heading into October.
The electorate itself also appears to be different this time - less confined to traditional voting patterns, more willing to try something new.
Vassy Kapelos is host of Power & Politics, weekdays at 5 p.m. ET on CBC News Network.
Power Lines
The Power & Politics Power Panelists on where the big parties will be focused this week
Amanda Alvaro president and co-founder of Pomp & Circumstance
The Liberals will likely continue to highlight that Andrew Scheer and his campaign director were recently caught holding behind-closed-doors strategy sessions with oil industry executives and shadowy third party groups. While the Conservatives strategized about "silencing environmental critics," the Liberals will continue to focus on the importance of a real plan to fight climate change
Rachel Curran senior associate at Harper & Associates Consulting
The Conservatives will be focused this week on issues designed to keep the government on the defensive: SNC-Lavalin; the trial of Vice-Admiral Mark Norman and the recent revelation that retiring Liberal MP Andrew Leslie will be testifying for the defence; and ongoing provincial opposition to Trudeau's carbon tax, as articulated in clear terms by Alberta Premier Jason Kenney in his testimony before the Senate on Bill C-69. The Conservatives will also be playing some defence of their own, as the Liberals press Scheer for his own climate change plan.
Kathleen Monk principal at Earnscliffe Strategy Group
New Democrat Leader Jagmeet Singh is trying to catch the eye of Canadians who are looking for a new progressive champion, now that 44 per cent of Liberal voters report they disapprove of Justin Trudeau's performance. Singh is starting to lay out his key policy offers for Canadians, such as affordable medicine, access to housing and a Canadian version of AOC's "Green New Deal." With just a few sitting weeks left in this Parliament, Singh has an important opportunity to hold Liberals accountable and will continue to put corporate influence over the Liberals under the spotlight.
Poll Tracker Takeaway
Éric Grenier's weekly look at key numbers in the political public opinion polls.
On the face of it, the polls have been all over the map this past week.
Surveys by the Angus Reid Institute and Léger have given the Conservatives a lead of 13 percentage points over the Liberals. Nanos Research put the edge at just three points, while Ipsos suggested it was four. Forum Research split the difference with a seven-point margin.
The natural reaction might be to throw up your hands. But this is actually how it should be.
The Canada Poll Tracker currently shows the Conservatives with a lead of just over seven points nationwide. If that's the current political environment, then we should expect to see polls giving the Conservatives a double-digit edge, with others showing a gap within the theoretical margin of error.
Assume that these polls have a margin of error of about three points. Online surveys cannot calculate a margin of error in the same way as random surveys, but they are designed to replicate the same kind of accuracy — and a seven-point Conservative lead easily turns into a gaping 13-point edge when you add three points to the Conservative tally and take three points away from the Liberals.
Similarly, that seven point gap turns into a tight one-point margin just as easily. Suddenly we go from majority territory to a toss-up.
So don't worry too much about the differences between individual polls. They can still paint the same overall portrait — and right now, it's one that doesn't look good for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Tap here to go to the full Poll Tracker
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Ask Us
We want to know what YOU want to know.Jim Hilson from Medicine Hat, Alta., emailed to ask… "I understand the reluctance of political parties to disclose too much too early. That just sets them up as a target. They have to keep electors on board and without giving away too much to the enemy. When is the right time for disclosure from a political party as to what they want to make the backbone of their campaign?"
The short answer is that there is no "right" time to release major parts of your eventual campaign platform. Most parties try to stagger announcements of significant policy initiatives to win as much attention as possible, and to force their opponents to respond. And, as you note, some parties prefer to wait to avoid having another party steal, incorporate, or otherwise assume all of parts of their plans.
For example, voters already have a good idea of how most of the parties plan to address climate change, and that's put pressure on the Conservatives to release their own plan before the summer, long before the formal campaign will begin this fall.
Most parties still time their campaign announcements to lead up to the formal release of a final, costed platform at some point in the campaign. Again, there's no firm rule about when a platform should be released.
Take 2015 as an example. The Liberals released the final, costed version of their platform on Oct. 5 while both the NDP and Conservatives unveiled their versions a few days later on Oct. 9.
The Greens were first-past-the-post, so to speak, when party leader Elizabeth May released her party's full platform on Sept 9.
There's a new wrinkle in this election. The Liberals passed legislation to allow the Parliamentary Budget Officer to give political parties the option of providing "independent and non-partisan" analysis of how much their platforms will cost taxpayers. So far, only the Liberals and Greens have given clear commitments to use the PBO's costing service, so stay tuned.
— Chris Hall, CBC National Affairs Editor and host of CBC Radio's The House
Thanks for reading. If you've got questions, criticisms or story tips, please email us at politics@cbc.ca.
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Friday 2 April 2021
Russia warns NATO against deploying troops to Ukraine
https://twitter.com/
https://davidraymondamos3.
#nbpoli #cdnpoli #CORRUPTION
https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/
Ukraine says Russia massing troops on border; U.S. warns Moscow
AFP Staff
Agence France-Presse’s network of 201 bureaus covers 151 countries, with 80 nationalities represented among its 2,400 collaborators. AFP is a global news agency delivering in-depth coverage of the events shaping our world from conflicts to politics, economics, sports, entertainment and the latest breakthroughs in health, science and technology.
The Agency operates regional hubs in five geographical zones: Africa, North America, Latin America, Asia, Middle East
Ukraine has been locked in a conflict with Russian-backed separatists since 2014. (AFP)
KYIV, UKRAINE -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday accused Moscow of building up troops on his country's border as the United States warned Russia against "intimidating" Ukraine.
Kiev has been locked in a conflict with Russian-backed separatists since 2014, and this week Ukrainian officials reported Russian troop movement in annexed Crimea and on the border, near territories controlled by Moscow-backed separatists.
On Thursday, Zelensky's ministers discussed the escalating security situation with Western allies including U.S. Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin.
"Muscle-flexing in the form of military exercises and possible provocations along the border are traditional Russian games," Zelensky said in a statement.
He accused Moscow of seeking to create "a threatening atmosphere" as Kiev hopes to resume a ceasefire brokered last year.
The U.S. State Department said it was "absolutely concerned by recent escalations of Russian aggressive and provocative actions in eastern Ukraine."
"What we would object to are aggressive actions that have an intent of intimidating, of threatening, our partner Ukraine," State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters.
Some observers say the reported Russian troop buildup is a test for the administration of U.S. President Joe Biden, who caused an uproar in Moscow last month by calling his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin a "killer".
This week, Moscow and Kyiv blamed each other for a rise in violence between government forces and Kremlin-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine, which has undermined the ceasefire.
Zelensky said 20 Ukrainian servicemen had been killed and 57 wounded since the start of the year.
Separately, the military announced that a Ukrainian soldier was wounded in an attack it blamed on separatists.
'READY FOR AN OFFENSIVE'
On Thursday, U.S. Secretary of Defence Austin called his Ukrainian counterpart Andriy Taran, Ukraine's defence ministry said.
Austin said during the call that Washington would "not leave Ukraine alone in the event of escalating Russian aggression", the ministry said.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba for his part discussed the "aggravation by the Russian Federation of the security situation" on the frontline with his Canadian counterpart Marc Garneau.
Ukraine's military intelligence accused Russia of preparing to "expand its military presence" in the separatist-controlled eastern regions of Donetsk and Lugansk.
In a statement, the intelligence service said it "does not rule out" an attempt by Russian forces to move "deep into Ukrainian territory".
A high-ranking Ukrainian government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, claimed that the Russian army was practising "military co-ordination" with separatists.
"From mid-April their combat units will be ready for an offensive," the official told AFP.
WEST SHOULD NOT 'WORRY'
Moscow has repeatedly denied sending troops and arms to buttress the separatists and Putin's spokesman stressed on Thursday that Moscow is at liberty to move troops across its territory.
"The Russian Federation moves its armed forces within its territory at its discretion," spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, but he did not directly confirm a troop buildup on the Ukrainian border.
He added that "it should not worry anyone and does not pose a threat to anyone".
The war in eastern Ukraine broke out in 2014 when Russia annexed the Crimean peninsula following a bloody uprising that ousted Ukraine's Kremlin-friendly president Viktor Yanukovych.
On Wednesday, the Pentagon said U.S. forces in Europe had raised their alert status following the "recent escalations of Russian aggression in eastern Ukraine".
Mark Milley, chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, also spoke with his Russian and Ukrainian counterparts, Valery Gerasimov and Ruslan Khomchak.
Khomchak said this week that 28,000 separatist fighters and "more than 2,000 Russian military instructors and advisers" are currently stationed in eastern Ukraine.
On Thursday, the deputy head of Zelensky's office, Roman Mashovets, called for joint drills with NATO forces to "help stabilise the security situation".
Zelensky was elected in 2019 promising to end the years-long conflict, but critics say a shaky ceasefire was his only tangible achievement.
The fighting has claimed more than 13,000 lives since 2014, according to the United Nations.
- ---------- Forwarded message ----------From: NIA_IG <nia_ig.fct@navy.mil>Date: Tue, 6 Apr 2021 11:03:08 +0000Subject: RE: [Non-DoD Source] Fwd: Methinks the evil lawyer Howie Cooper made a deal with the VERY NASTY FBI dudes in Beantown N'esy Pas Howie Anglin?To: David Amos <david.raymond.amos333@gmail.
com> Dear David Amos,The Naval Intelligence Activity (NIA) Office of the Inspector General (IG) reviewed your email and attached .WAV file provided to the NIA Hotline on 2 April 2021. I found no connection to the United States Navy or United States Naval Intelligence.Naval Inspectors General exist to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of US Navy Programs, and strive to eliminate and prevent waste, fraud, and abuse with their respective departments. Naval IGs are restricted to assessing matters falling within the purview of their respective commanders.Citing the lack of an apparent connection to the US Navy or Naval Intelligence, I am unable to provide further assistance, or provide direct referral to any other agency or activity.Sincerely,Mark KonedaInvestigatorNaval Intelligence ActivityOffice of the Inspector General(301)669-3030 (unclass)TSVOIP 560-3030INSPECTOR GENERAL SENSITIVE INFORMATION - FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY The information contained in this email and any accompanying attachments may contain Inspector General sensitive or pre-decisional information, which is protected from mandatory disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA, 5 USC Section 552). It should not be released to unauthorized persons. If you are not the intended recipient of this information, any disclosure, copying, distribution, or the taking of any action in reliance on this information is prohibited. If you received this email in error, please notify this office by email or bycalling (301) 669-3030.
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos333@gmail.
Date: Fri, 2 Apr 2021 16:20:15 -0300
Subject: Hey Jim perhaps many Yankees should say YO to Premiers Moe
and Higgy and all of Queen Dizzy Lizzy"s minions before another
needless war breaks out overseas EH???
To: Jim@conservativewriters.org, "fin.minfinance-financemin.
<fin.minfinance-financemin.
<scott.moe@gov.sk.ca>, "blaine.higgs" <blaine.higgs@gnb.ca>,
"Greta.Bossenmaier" <Greta.Bossenmaier@hq.nato.int
art.mcdonald@forces.gc.ca, wayne.eyre@forces.gc.ca, premier
<premier@ontario.ca>, premier <premier@gov.bc.ca>, premier
<premier@gov.ab.ca>, pm <pm@pm.gc.ca>, "Ian.Shugart"
<Ian.Shugart@pco-bcp.gc.ca>, premier <premier@gov.pe.ca>, premier
<premier@gov.nl.ca>, premier <premier@gov.nt.ca>, premier
<premier@gov.yk.ca>, premier <premier@leg.gov.mb.ca>, PREMIER
<PREMIER@gov.ns.ca>, mcu <mcu@justice.gc.ca>, "Mark.Blakely"
<Mark.Blakely@rcmp-grc.gc.ca>, "martin.gaudet"
<martin.gaudet@fredericton.ca>
"Ross.Wetmore" <Ross.Wetmore@gnb.ca>, erin.otoole@parl.gc.ca
Cc: motomaniac333 <motomaniac333@gmail.com>, Newsroom
<Newsroom@globeandmail.com>, Nathalie Sturgeon
<sturgeon.nathalie@
.
https://www.aljazeera.com/
Russia warns NATO against deploying troops to Ukraine
Moscow will act to ‘ensure its security’ if the alliance intervenes in the conflict, which has seen fresh fighting.
2 Apr 2021
![Renewed front-line clashes between Ukrainian government forces and Russian-backed separatist forces have gripped eastern Ukraine in recent weeks [File: Gleb Garanich/Reuters]](https://ci3.googleusercontent.com/meips/ADKq_NYUZ3BYc63efXXUM3rhpZwXD-pxefWCmvdzRR7MvNLqTVcdETFb9LSKnFopA781zO4vXnTDjlpI7olqj2vgAaXa3QkabnvUGX6NMiUpVd757qy7hFihmrXqIX9O_UeP6-FQ1_jSojpvlTHdICDgEP9jJsbfTfOyOv313vtQryUfo-wzNfrAk4GU-chh0whVG7Zs-U9ERCOXp53GXCC-2UOhEOHz7UtsNtyUJ1Bi_qvsbSbr1e0=s0-d-e1-ft#https://www.aljazeera.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-03-17T172153Z_1735282055_RC2TLF9GNTGK_RTRMADP_3_HEALTH-CORONAVIRUS-UKRAINE-EAST.jpg?resize=770%2C513)
Renewed front-line clashes between Ukrainian government forces and Russian-backed separatist forces have gripped eastern Ukraine in recent weeks [File: Gleb Garanich/Reuters]
Russia has warned NATO against deploying troops to Ukraine, saying such a move would escalate tensions nears its borders, amid renewed fears over the region’s long-simmering conflict.
Moscow’s comments came after NATO voiced concern on Thursday over what it said was a large Russian military build-up near eastern Ukraine, with leading member the United States pledging to stand by Ukraine in the event of any Russian “aggression”.
Renewed front-line clashes have gripped the region in recent weeks.
Russia earlier said an escalation in the conflict in Ukraine’s Donbass region could “destroy” Ukraine.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Friday that the situation at the contact line in eastern Ukraine between Ukrainian government forces and Russian-backed separatist forces was concerning, and that multiple “provocations” were taking place there.
Peskov also said Russia would be forced to respond if NATO troops were deployed to Ukraine as he insisted Russia was not threatening Ukraine.
“There is no doubt such a scenario would lead to a further increase in tensions close to Russia’s borders. Of course, this would call for additional measures from the Russian side to ensure its security,” he said, without specifying which measures would be adopted.
“Russia is not threatening anyone, it has never threatened anyone.”
Ukraine has been battling pro-Russian separatists in the eastern Donetsk and Lugansk regions since 2014, following Moscow’s annexation of the Crimean peninsula after an uprising that toppled Ukraine’s Kremlin-friendly President Viktor Yanukovych.
Moscow and Kyiv this week blamed each other for a rise in violence that has undermined a ceasefire brokered last year.
Peskov’s comments came after the US warned Russia against “intimidating” Ukraine, with both Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken calling their Ukrainian counterparts to stress support.
The Pentagon said earlier this week that US forces in Europe had raised their alert status following the “recent escalations of Russian aggression in eastern Ukraine”.
Moscow, Kyiv trade barbs
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Thursday accused Russia of massing troops on the border and said 20 Ukrainian servicemen had been killed since the start of the year.
Ukraine’s military intelligence accused Russia of preparing to “expand its military presence” in the separatist-controlled regions.
Moscow has repeatedly denied sending troops and arms to support the separatists. The Kremlin has said that Russia is at liberty to move troops on its own territory.
“Russia is not a participant of the conflict,” Peskov said on Friday, accusing Ukraine’s armed forces of “multiple” provocations in the region.
A senior Russian official also dismissed reports of a plan to attack Ukraine as “fake”.
“Russia is not interested in any conflict with Ukraine, especially a military one,” deputy foreign minister Andrei Rudenko told state news agency RIA Novosti.
To date, the fighting in the region has killed more than 13,000 people, according to the United Nations.
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Art.McDonald@forces.gc.ca
Date: Thu, 18 Mar 2021 13:49:10 +0000
Subject: Automatic reply: Methinks the evil lawyer Howie Cooper made a
deal with the VERY NASTY FBI dudes in Beantown N'esy Pas Howie Anglin?
To: motomaniac333@gmail.com
The Acting Chief of the Defence Staff is LGen Wayne Eyre, he may be
reached at wayne.eyre@forces.gc.ca.
Le Chef d'état-major de la Défense par intérim est le LGen Wayne Eyre.
Il peut être rejoint au wayne.eyre@forces.gc.ca.
Art McD
He/Him // Il/Lui
Admiral/amiral Art McDonald
Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS)
Canadian Armed Forces
art.mcdonald@forces.gc.ca<
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "Higgs, Premier Blaine (PO/CPM)" <Blaine.Higgs@gnb.ca>
Date: Fri, 2 Apr 2021 18:52:19 +0000
Subject: Automatic reply: Continuation of our Conversation "The
Rothschilds also control BHP Billiton" Go figure why the BHP boss Jac
Nassar sent yours truly the letter hereto attached many moons ago
To: David Amos <david.raymond.amos333@gmail.
Thank you for taking the time to write to us.
Due to the high volume of emails that we receive daily, please note
that there may be a delay in our response. Thank you for your
understanding.
If you are looking for current information on Coronavirus, please
visit www.gnb.ca/coronavirus<http://
If this is a Media Request, please contact the Premier’s office at
(506) 453-2144.
Thank you.
Bonjour,
Nous vous remercions d’avoir pris le temps de nous écrire.
Tenant compte du volume élevé de courriels que nous recevons
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Si vous recherchez des informations à jour sur le coronavirus,
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S’il s’agit d’une demande des médias, veuillez communiquer avec le
Cabinet du premier ministre au 506-453-2144.
Merci.
Office of the Premier/Cabinet du premier ministre
P.O Box/C. P. 6000
Fredericton, New-Brunswick/Nouveau-
E3B 5H1
Canada
Tel./Tel. : (506) 453-2144
Email/Courriel:
premier@gnb.ca/
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Office of the Premier <scott.moe@gov.sk.ca>
Date: Fri, 2 Apr 2021 18:51:21 +0000
Subject: Thank you for your email
To: David Amos <david.raymond.amos333@gmail.
This is to acknowledge that your email has been received by the Office
of the Premier.
We appreciate the time you have taken to write.
NOTICE: This e-mail was intended for a specific person. If it has
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Thank you for your cooperation and assistance.
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électronique immédiatement et effacer ce message et en détruire toute
copie. Merci de votre cooperation.
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "MinFinance / FinanceMin (FIN)" <fin.minfinance-financemin.
Date: Fri, 2 Apr 2021 18:52:25 +0000
Subject: RE: Continuation of our Conversation "The Rothschilds also
control BHP Billiton" Go figure why the BHP boss Jac Nassar sent yours
truly the letter hereto attached many moons ago
To: David Amos <david.raymond.amos333@gmail.
The Department of Finance acknowledges receipt of your electronic
correspondence. Please be assured that we appreciate receiving your
comments.
Due to the evolving COVID-19 situation, we apologize in advance for
any delay in responding to your enquiry. In the meantime, information
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calling 1-800 O Canada (1-800-622-6232) or 1-833-784-4397.
Le ministère des Finances Canada accuse réception de votre courriel.
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En raison de la fluidité de la crise de la COVID-19, il est possible
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le site Web du gouvernement du Canada au
www.canada.ca/coronavirus<http
composant le
1-800 O Canada (1-800-622-6232) ou le 1-833-784-4397.
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Newsroom <newsroom@globeandmail.com>
Date: Fri, 2 Apr 2021 18:52:55 +0000
Subject: Automatic reply: Continuation of our Conversation "The
Rothschilds also control BHP Billiton" Go figure why the BHP boss Jac
Nassar sent yours truly the letter hereto attached many moons ago
To: David Amos <david.raymond.amos333@gmail.
Thank you for contacting The Globe and Mail.
If your matter pertains to newspaper delivery or you require technical
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This is the correct email address for requests for news coverage and
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Top US national security officials call counterparts as Russia and Ukraine tensions rise
By Oren Liebermann and Barbara Starr, CNN
Updated 8:54 PM ET, Wed March 31, 2021
(CNN)Top US national security officials have spoken with their Ukrainian counterparts, and America's top general held a call Wednesday with his Russian opposite number amid concern over Russian military activity in Crimea and eastern Ukraine, including what the US deemed a violation of a ceasefire by Moscow that led to the deaths of four Ukrainian soldiers last week.
Canadian warship transits South China Sea as diplomatic tensions remain high
HMCS Calgary passed near the disputed Spratly Islands, claimed by both China and the Philippines
The
HMCS Calgary, shown here returning to Victoria in 2008, passed through
the South China Sea while travelling from Brunei to Vietnam on Monday
and Tuesday. (Deddeda Stemler/The Canadian Press)A Canadian warship sailed through sensitive waters near China this week amid heightened tensions between the two countries.
The Department of National Defence says HMCS Calgary passed through the South China Sea while travelling from Brunei to Vietnam on Monday and Tuesday.
The passage did not go unnoticed by China, which shadowed the Canadian ship, according to a Defence official speaking on condition of anonymity.
China claims much of the sea as its territory and has been greatly expanding its military presence in the area. Many of those claims have been rejected by China's neighbours and several international rulings.
The Calgary's passage could aggravate tensions with Beijing, which has been engaged in a diplomatic dispute with Ottawa since Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou was arrested at the Vancouver airport in December 2018.
Beijing subsequently arrested two Canadians, Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, in what the federal government and others have described as an act of retaliation in response to Meng's detention.
Meng is now facing possible extradition to the U.S. to face fraud allegations, while China has launched court proceedings against Kovrig and Spavor behind closed doors in recent weeks.
Department of National Defence spokesperson Daniel Le Bouthillier confirmed the Calgary passed near the disputed Spratly Islands — which both China and the Philippines claim and where the Chinese military has set up facilities and equipment.
Demonstrating support for allies
He said the South China Sea was the most practical route for the warship. Canadian officials have previously denied trying to send any message when warships have passed through waters claimed by China.
But documents obtained by The Canadian Press last year show such passages are often discussed at the highest levels of government before being approved.
One transit by HMCS Ottawa through the South China Sea's Taiwan Strait last year was described in the documents as having "demonstrated Canadian support for our closest partners and allies, regional security and the rules-based international order."
Defence officials were told to keep quiet about the Ottawa's trip in September 2019, three months after Chinese fighter jets buzzed two other Canadian ships making the same voyage.
NATO scrambles jets 10 times to track Russian military planes across Europe
(CNN)NATO scrambled fighter jets 10 times Monday to track and intercept an unusually "rare peak" of Russian bombers and fighters flying over the North Sea, Black Sea and Baltic Sea, according to a NATO official.
From: PMO-CPM <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Thu, Jul 11, 2024 at 8:02 AM
Subject: Itinerary
To: <PM_AN_E@list.pm.gc.ca>
July 10, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
Note: All times local
Washington, D.C., United States of America
10:00 a.m. The Prime Minister will participate in a meeting with the North Atlantic Council and Indo-Pacific partners.
Note for media:
Pooled photo opportunity and host broadcaster
11:00 a.m. The Prime Minister will meet with the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Keir Starmer.
Note for media:
Pooled photo opportunity at the beginning of the meeting
12:30 p.m. The Prime Minister will hold a media availability.
Note for media:
Open coverage
1:00 p.m. The Prime Minister will meet with the President of Latvia, Edgars Rinkēvičs.
Note for media:
Pooled photo opportunity at the beginning of the meeting
1:30 p.m. The Prime Minister will meet with the Prime Minister of Estonia, Kaja Kallas.
Note for media:
Pooled photo opportunity at the beginning of the meeting
2:00 p.m. The Prime Minister will participate in a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council.
Note for media:
Pooled photo opportunity and host broadcaster
6:30 p.m. The Prime Minister will depart for Ottawa, Canada.
Closed to media
National Capital Region, Canada
8:00 p.m. The Prime Minister will arrive in Ottawa, Canada.
Closed to media
PMO Media Relations: media@pmo-cpm.gc.ca / https://pm.gc.ca/en/media
This document is also available at https://pm.gc.ca
The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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Biden faces media amid fight to keep re-election bid on track
Thursday news conference will see embattled president face reporters alone, amid growing pressure to bow out
U.S. President Joe Biden will face the media Thursday for a highly important news conference that comes amid sustained pressure that he drop his bid for re-election.
The 81-year-old Biden has been participating in a NATO summit this week in Washington and the closing news conference — scheduled for 6:30 p.m. ET — could prove pivotal in assuring American voters that he's fit to serve another four years in the Oval Office.
Biden, the presumptive nominee for the Democrats, has been fighting to keep his re-election bid alive in the wake of a much-panned debate performance against Donald Trump, his 78-year-old presidential predecessor and Republican rival, two weeks ago. They are the oldest contenders to ever seek the Oval Office.
Thursday's news conference will be Biden's least scripted televised appearance since the debate — testing his mental acuity and ability to answer a flurry of questions from several reporters. He has not held a solo news conference in this manner since November, according to The Associated Press.
Earlier on Thursday at the summit, Biden mistakenly referred to Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelenskyy as "President Putin" before correcting himself.
Zelenskyy is "going to beat President Putin," Biden said quickly. "I am so focused on beating Putin."
More Democrats call for ballot exit
The pressure on Biden continued to build Thursday, as more House Democrats came forward urging him to exit to the ballot — now totalling at least 12 — along with one Democrat senator.
U.S.
President Joe Biden speaks during a Thursday meeting with Ukrainian
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the sidelines of the Washington-hosted
NATO summit. (Susan Walsh/The Associated Press)
Rep. Hillary Scholten of Michigan said on social media Thursday that Biden should "pass the torch."
Similarly, Rep. Brad Schneider of Illinois said in a statement that "the time has come ... for President Biden to heroically pass the torch to a new generation of leadership."
Rep. Greg Stanton of Arizona made a similar public appeal for Biden's departure, as did Rep. Ed Case of Hawaii.
Donors contributing to pressure
Biden has also seen key Democrat donors and supporters demanding the same, including Hollywood actor George Clooney who earlier this week wrote an op-ed calling for the president to step aside.
So far, Biden has resisted the calls to go, arguing he is best-placed to defeat Trump in the November election.
Some of the president's closest advisers — including Biden campaign chair Jen O'Malley Dillon — met with Democrat senators on Thursday to shore up support for his re-election bid. That did not seem to assuage all who attended.
"Some of my concerns are allayed, some others have been deepened," Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut said afterward.
Yet Biden still retains support among some prominent senators.
Sen. Bernie Sanders, the Vermont independent, told The Associated Press he thinks Biden "is going to win this election. I think he has a chance to win it big."
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
With files from The Associated Press and Reuters
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