Russia in Canada

⚡️ On Russia's win in international arbitration regarding the rights of a coastal state in the Black Sea, the Sea of Azov, and the Kerch Strait ⚖️ Today, the Permanent Court of Arbitration (#PCA) in The Hague issued its final ruling in the 10-year arbitral proceedings between Russia and Ukraine concerning the rights of a coastal state in the Kerch Strait, the Sea of Azov, and the waters of the Black Sea surrounding Crimea. The dispute was heard by an international arbitral tribunal in accordance with the procedure set out in Annex VII to the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Composed of five independent arbitrators from Algeria, the UK, Mexico, Russia, and the Republic of Korea, the arbitral tribunal passed down a unanimous ruling. 🇷🇺 The case, which carries major geopolitical, legal, and historical significance, ended in a decisive victory for the Russian Federation. ❌ Numerous claims by Ukraine which accused Russia of violating dozens of provisions of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea have been rejected. Kiev’s efforts to challenge Russia's sovereignty over the Crimean Peninsula and the adjacent maritime areas have failed. The tribunal dismissed Ukraine’s claims for the return of control over hydrocarbon, fishery, and other resources in the waters of Crimea and the Azov region, as well as any “compensation” or “reparations” from Russia for their use and alleged “damage”. Ukraine’s attempt, supported by Western countries, to designate the Kerch Strait as “international” with the right of passage for vessels of all countries, including warships, has failed as well. For the first time in history, the legally binding award formally recognised the status of the Kerch Strait and the Sea of Azov as internal waters forming part of sovereign state territory. The tribunal rejected Kiev’s request to declare Russia’s assertion of sovereignty over the entire Sea of Azov unlawful (as “aggravation of the dispute”) following the Donbass, Zaporozhye, and Kherson regions’ accession to Russia. Nothing in the award prevents Russia from exercising its sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction in the maritime areas contiguous to the Crimean Peninsula, the Sea of Azov, and the Azov-Kerch waters. The tribunal dismissed as absurd and cynical Ukraine’s demand for dismantling the Crimean Bridge. The very fact of submission of such a non-starter demand demonstrated inhumane nature of the Kiev regime, which allegedly continues to seek to “punish” Crimeans for their choice in favour of Russia. Ukraine’s claims that the Crimean Bridge obstructs navigation in these waters were found to be unfounded. Ukraine’s allegations of violations by Russia of obligations concerning the protection of underwater cultural heritage were found to be entirely unsubstantiated and unsupported by evidence. The tribunal also dismissed all Ukrainian claims regarding alleged environmental damage caused by Russia. It was established that Russia has an effective environmental monitoring system in place. 👉 The only issue on which the tribunal made a “nod” towards Ukraine concerned partial non-compliance with environmental impact assessment procedures in the construction of the Crimean Bridge, the energy bridge, and the gas pipeline across the Kerch Strait. *** The Russian Side found the outcome of the proceedings satisfactory. ☝️This arbitral ruling represents a significant defeat for Ukraine and the West in the “legal warfare” waged against Russia. Read in full

🎙 Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s answer to a media question (Minsk, June 15, 2026) ❓ Question: The West wants to use the Kiev regime against Belarusians. How would you comment on this? How should this be addressed? 💬 Sergey Lavrov: The West is using the Kiev regime against us, and Belarus is our closest ally. Zelensky keeps saying that Belarus is planning to attack Ukraine, trying to provoke the West. It seems he now feels a sense of complete impunity and wants to seize the moment to show how “tough” he is. Besides, his goals and assessments appear to vary depending on his state of mind. We have a very clear position. We fully understand the approach outlined by President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko: Belarus is our ally, but Belarus is not taking part in the war. ☝️ If they want to drag it into the war, Alexander Lukashenko has already responded to that as well: “They will not like the consequences”. 🇷🇺🇧🇾 #RussiaBelarus

🎙 Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s answer to a media question (Minsk, June 15, 2026) ❓ Question: Do you share the view of President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko that the conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine could be ended this year? What needs to be done for that to happen? Will the G7 Summit contribute in any way to the negotiation process on Ukraine? 💬 Sergey Lavrov: Any conflict can be ended quickly. US President Donald Trump has said more than once that all it takes is political will. But life, in a wide variety of situations, proves more complicated than forecasts, so I would not speculate now. As President Vladimir Putin said, everything is being decided in conditions where the West is not fulfilling its obligations, and where the agreements reached in Alaska are being sabotaged because of the aggressive policy of the EU and Britain. President Vladimir Putin stressed that, under these conditions, everything is being decided on the front line by our military, in whom the entire country has placed its trust. ☝️ As for the Iranian conflict, we hope that everything announced today and confirmed literally an hour ago will materialise. We hope that this agreement – as stated in Washington, Tehran and Pakistan, with Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif acting as mediator – will be signed this week.

🎙 Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s statement to the press following talks with President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko (Minsk, June 15, 2026) 💬 Sergey Lavrov: We have just concluded a lengthy conversation with President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, who devoted considerable time to discussing the current situation in the Union State. 🤝 We have many plans, and all of them are being steadily implemented. This makes it possible to achieve the objectives set by the presidents of Russia and Belarus, who regularly align their approaches and outline specific areas for further development. We also discussed international affairs. As is regularly the case during meetings between our Leaders, the focus was on the situation around the Ukrainian crisis – the hybrid, and later hot, war that the West unleashed against Russia after the coup in Ukraine and through the hands of the Ukrainian regime. This war continues. Everything must be done to ensure that justice prevails. This concerns, above all, the rights of Russian people, which the Kiev regime has been trying to strip them of completely for many years. We also discussed the role being played by our Western “colleagues” – the US and the EU – in settling issues that go far beyond the Ukrainian conflict and concern the general principles of security both in Europe and globally. We have a shared stance on this issue. In the current situation, Europeans are clinging to the mistaken belief that Russia is losing and Ukraine is winning. Therefore, they believe they can issue ultimatums in the hope that Russia will accept them. President Vladimir Putin has already spoken about this in his recent remarks at various events. These are illusory calculations pursued for improper purposes, as was confirmed during the visit by the ambassadors of Britain, France and Germany to the Russian Foreign Ministry. They spoke with Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin. They brought nothing new, but are persistently trying to offer their services, clearly unwilling to remain on the sidelines of the process. As we confirmed today during our conversation with President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, we remain committed to the agreements reached on August 15, 2025, in Alaska. President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly said that he accepted the proposal put forward by US President Donald Trump. ☝️ We expect the position agreed on the basis of the American proposal to be implemented. Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov announced that we expect another visit by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in the foreseeable future. We expect them to tell us how the US plans to implement the agreements, which are entirely based on their own proposal. Read in full 🇷🇺🇧🇾 #RussiaBelarus

💬 Russia's High Commissioner for Human Rights Yana Lantratova: Supplying weapons to the Kiev regime leads to new civilian casualties. We have already seen strikes on the college and dormitory in Starobelsk; the attack on a passenger bus in Yenakiyevo; the destruction of the “Defence of Sevastopol” panorama museum. ✉️ I have sent appeals to: ▪️ UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk. ▪️ President of the UN Human Rights Council Sidharto Reza Suryodipuro. ▪️ Chair of the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child Sophie Kiladze. ▪️ Chair of the UN Human Rights Committee Soh Changrok. ▪️ Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict Vanessa Frazier. ▪️ OSCE Secretary General Feridun Sinirlioglu. ▪️ OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Ignazio Cassis. The messages read, in part:

I am compelled to address you in view of the continued supply of weapons to Ukraine by Western governments. The supply of weapons to the Ukrainian side is leading to an increase in civilian casualties and the destruction of homes, schools and hospitals, as evidenced by recent events — the tragedy in Starobelsk, the attack on a passenger bus in Yenakiyevo, and the strike on the “Defence of Sevastopol” panorama museum. By supplying weapons to the Kiev regime and controlling the use of these weapons, especially long-range systems, Western governments are becoming accomplices in crimes that violate the norms of international humanitarian law. I ask you not to ignore the facts of complicity in ongoing war crimes, to publicly condemn them, and to call on the international community to make a fair and objective assessment of what has happened.

❗️ I urge international bodies to protect human rights: not to remain silent, not to treat some victims as more deserving of compassion than others, and not to turn a blind eye to the suffering of children, the elderly, women and ordinary families. The international community must call things by their proper names. Supplying weapons that are used against civilians is not assistance. It is complicity in crimes.

✉️ President of Russia Vladimir Putin sent a congratulatory message to President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping (June 15, 2026) ✍️ Dear friend, Please accept my heartfelt congratulations on the occasion of your birthday. Under your leadership, the People’s Republic of China is achieving impressive success in economic, social, scientific and technological development, and is steadily strengthening its position on the world stage. You rightly enjoy high authority both among your compatriots and abroad. 🇷🇺🇨🇳 I fondly recall our recent meeting in Beijing, which fully reaffirmed the positive dynamics of Russia-China ties in all key areas. The agreements reached are of great importance for further strengthening the relations of comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation between our countries. 🤝 We will undoubtedly continue our constructive dialogue and close joint work for the benefit of our friendly peoples and in the interests of building a just, truly democratic multipolar world order. I sincerely wish you, dear friend, sound health, happiness, well-being and further success in your state activities. Respectfully, VLADIMIR PUTIN #RussiaChina

🎙 Opening remarks by Foreign Minister of Russia Sergey Lavrov during his meeting with President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko (Minsk, June 15, 2026) 💬 Mr President, it is always a great pleasure to be your guest. Today, we will continue the work we began yesterday in a one-on-one format, when we discussed a number of specific issues in detail. Now we will report on the thoughts that have come up on our Side. Of course, I will be ready to present our assessments of recent developments, including in connection with preparations for the G7 meeting and the initiatives by Britain, France and Germany – the five-point ultimatum. The ambassadors of these countries came to MFA Russia and presented us with their proposals. There is much to discuss, including issues that directly concern the Union State. 🇷🇺🇧🇾 #RussiaBelarus 📸©️ Press Service of the President of the Republic of Belarus

✉️ Russia's President Vladimir Putin sent a message of greetings to President of the United States of America Donald Trump on his 80th birthday (June 14, 2026) ✍️ Dear Donald, Please accept my warmest greetings on your 80th birthday. You are a truly remarkable and extraordinary person and politician, and I send you my very best wishes on this special day. I greatly value the mutual understanding we have developed, which allows us to speak frankly and directly about even the most complex issues on our bilateral and international agendas. 🤝 I am confident that, through our joint efforts, we could genuinely strengthen Russia-US relations and do a great deal to uphold security and stability on the global stage. I sincerely wish you good health, happiness, prosperity, and every success. Please also pass on my warmest regards to Melania and all your family. VLADIMIR PUTIN *** ☎️ Commentary by Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov following Vladimir Putin’s telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump #RussiaUSA

⚡️ Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia and Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus have published their third Joint Report on the human rights situation in selected countries. 👉 Read the Report in full From the address to readers by Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia Dmitry Lyubinsky and Deputy Foreign Minister of Belarus Igor Sekreta:

The universal nature of human rights means that people of any nationality, race, sex, age and state of health have the right to a dignified life regardless of what they believe in, whom they love, or any other characteristics. The universality of human rights also means that they must be respected across the globe, in every country, without manipulations based on double standards. One cannot pretend that problems do not exist, or hush them up, while at the same time interfering in the internal affairs of sovereign states in an attempt to impose the notorious “rules-based order” – rules that run counter to the norms and principles of international law enshrined in universally recognised international documents. This is precisely the approach we call on our colleagues from the countries covered in this report to follow.

*** The third joint report by Foreign Ministries of Russia and Belarus on the human rights situation in selected countries, presented to experts and the public, is a clear example of close intergovernmental cooperation in the field of human rights and demonstrates the proximity of our countries’ positions on this important issue. The document is aimed at drawing attention to the challenges and threats facing today’s international community in the field of human rights. Above all, when describing the list of problems in the promotion and protection of human rights compiled in the report, one cannot fail to note the unchanged essence of these problems – namely, the so-called double standards that still persist and are even worsening in assessments of various human rights situations and phenomena. This approach is regularly used by the “collective West” to fuel confrontation, pressure sovereign states and interfere in their internal affairs, as shown in the relevant country sections of the report. Through their increasingly brazen approaches to interpreting human rights, Western countries completely negate their own rhetoric about the universality of these rights. Another feature of the current situation is the scaling back of social obligations and the militarisation of entire sectors of the economy – all under the pretext of the notorious external threat. Such “narratives”, as they are now commonly called, are widespread in the Baltic states, Poland, Ukraine and Moldova, whose economies are rapidly degrading. Germany, France, Britain and a number of other countries of the “Old and New World” are following the same path. *** ❗️Another matter of grave concern is the resurgence of racism and racial discrimination. We have repeatedly stated at international human rights forums and in thematic reports that racist ideas and “values” are being openly promoted in a number of countries, while national radicals are being glorified. Such approaches are destroying the principles and manifestations of humanism in international politics, erasing established notions of normality and permissibility, and effectively laying the groundwork for a new public morality based on inequality, discrimination and the possibility of eliminating those deemed undesirable. The numerous examples from the present and the past compiled in the report convincingly confirm the importance – indeed, the imperative – of consolidating the efforts of the entire constructively minded international community to successfully counter existing and emerging challenges and mitigate their negative consequences. #HumanRights

⚡️ Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia and Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus have published their third Joint Report on the human rights situation in selected countries. 👉 Read the Report in full The document follows up on the annual reports by MFAs of Russia and Belarus on the human rights situation around the world and is designed to support our joint efforts to draw the attention of the international community to the challenges and threats facing modern society in the field of human rights protection. 👉 First Joint Report 👉 Second Joint Report The report will be presented on June 30, July 7 and July 9 during conferences at the #CIS Executive Committee in Minsk, at the #OSCE headquarters in Vienna, and on the sidelines of the 62nd Session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. The information collected in the report clearly exposes a very serious problem of our time – the spread of ideologies that seek to justify inequality. In practice, this manifests itself in the growing prevalence of racism, racial discrimination and related intolerance. The danger lies in the fact that these ideologies and practices are used to serve the ambitions of Western countries and eliminate “threats” to their dominance, which they have preserved by fair means or foul for the past 500 years, enabling them to extract disproportionate benefits at the expense of other societies and to the detriment of all humanity. At first, this dominance was maintained directly – through the exploitation of colonies, the siphoning off of resources, the organisation of slavery, and so on. Today, neocolonial methods are widely used. ⚠️ And the West sees the “threat” in the alternative offered by Russia, Belarus and other countries pursuing independent domestic and foreign policies. The West has designated them as its competitors and even adversaries. In this way, it justifies its aggressive policy, stopping at nothing and using any measures – often illegal ones – against those it finds undesirable. *** Confrontation is being deliberately fuelled, and pressure on sovereign states is mounting. Direct interference in their internal affairs, including through the use of force, is also being employed. Across the globe, the West is creating zones of conflict and seeking to impose its own rules, following the old colonial maxim of “divide and conquer”. This is happening at a time when the European – and, more broadly, Western – model of social development, along with the Euro-Atlantic security model, has discredited itself. Through its actions, the West is making it increasingly clear that it is unable to defend its own development models in fair competition, and is therefore sinking ever deeper into the unseemly politicisation of all areas of interaction, while only creating more and more problems for those it has declared to be its “competitors”. Since 2022, the West has been actively using the illegitimate neo-Nazi regime in Kiev as a geopolitical and military foothold against Russia. More recently, it has begun floating the idea of using the Kiev junta against the Republic of Belarus as well. Only truly equal cooperation among all states gives humanity a chance to completely eradicate colonialism and its modern forms. And only such interaction will prevent individual countries from bending the system of international law to their will and using its universal human rights mechanisms for selfish purposes. Unlike similar Western studies, the report prepared jointly by the Foreign Ministries of Russia and Belarus is not intended to lecture or moralise. ☝️ This Joint Report summarises factual information on human rights violations in the countries mentioned. 👉 The right to pass moral judgment on them remains with the readers.

⚡️ Comment by Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov following Vladimir Putin’s telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump (June 14, 2026) 💬 Yury Ushakov: President of Russia Vladimir Putin telephoned the US President today to extend birthday greetings on his 80th birthday. The conversation was friendly and candid, lasting just under an hour – 55 minutes to be precise. As you might expect, it was not merely an exchange of pleasantries. President Trump heard more than kind words and good wishes: the leaders also discussed key issues relating to the current international situation, the development of Russia-US relations, and possible future contacts between representatives of both sides. As for the greetings, they were informal and reflected the nature of the personal relationship between the two leaders. The Russian President made no secret of his respect for Donald Trump’s fighting spirit, his ability to withstand blows, successfully overcome obstacles, and persistently pursue his goals. Incidentally, the Russian President also sent a birthday message in which he highlighted the exceptional character traits of the man he was honouring – traits that contribute to his success both as a person and as a politician. Donald Trump was touched by the remarks and thanked Vladimir Putin, noting that he was the first foreign leader to call him at the White House. <...> Vladimir Putin naturally extended his best wishes to First Lady Melania Trump, praising her role in reuniting Russian and Ukrainian children with their families. Donald Trump, in turn, conveyed his wife’s greetings and gratitude for the assistance she had received from Russia. To conclude the ceremonial congratulatory part of my remarks, I will note that Vladimir Putin thanked Donald Trump for his warm congratulatory message on Russia Day, which expressed respect for the Russian people. Naturally, the conversation also touched on the situation surrounding the memorandum of understanding being drafted between the United States and Iran. Donald Trump said an agreement was close and expressed hope that the results of the difficult but ultimately successful negotiations could be announced today. He acknowledged that the road to agreement had been arduous, with many obstacles encountered – and not only from the Iranian leadership. Ultimately, however, the efforts of American negotiators, with the assistance of Pakistani and Qatari mediators, produced an acceptable outcome. Trump expressed gratitude for Russia’s involvement and, in particular, for its proposals aimed at finding constructive solutions. From our side satisfaction was expressed that the conflict, which had the potential to set the entire region and beyond, judging by all indications, being contained. Readiness was also stated to continue working toward stabilizing the situation and addressing the underlying issues that will still require serious attention. As for the Ukrainian conflict, Donald Trump once again emphasized the need to bring military operations to an end. He stated that he is prepared to exert influence on both European partners and Kiev. <...> The recent strikes against civilian facilities on Russian territory, of course, hinder efforts toward a settlement, and this was noted. Trump also said that ending the war would open up prospects for building a genuinely new quality of U.S.–Russian relations. Vladimir Putin stressed that no attempts by the Kiev regime to strike civilian infrastructure in Russia would alter Ukraine’s critical situation on the battlefield. <...> As for Zelenskyy personally, it would be worth conveying to him that he should not forget the tragedy of the Holocaust, rather than honoring Nazi war criminals with ceremonial reburials. It is noteworthy that Trump spoke about the alliance between our two countries during the Second World War. He said this is something that simply must not be forgotten.<...> It was agreed that the U.S. President’s special representatives, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, will arrive in Russia in the near future. Read in full

📆11 июня 2026 г. Генеральное консульство России в Монреале совместно с Представительством Российской Федерации при Международной организации гражданской авиации (ИКАО) провели государственный прием по случаю Дня России. В мероприятии приняли участие представители консульского корпуса, аккредитованного в Монреале, постоянных представительств государств — членов ИКАО, а также деловых, научных, общественных и религиозных кругов. 💬 В своем приветственном слове Представитель Российской Федерации при ИКАО А.А.Баталов поздравил гостей с национальным праздником и отметил особое значение Дня России:

День России — это праздник всех народов нашей страны, которые на протяжении столетий живут вместе, создавая уникальный русский мир, единый в своем многообразии, объединяющий Европу и Азию, обеспечивающий гармоничное сосуществование различных религий, культур и традиций.

❗️А.А.Баталов подчеркнул, что современная Россия, опираясь на традиции, духовно-нравственные ценности и стремление к правде и справедливости, является государством высоких технологий и инноваций, одним из лидеров в освоении космоса, открытым к равноправному сотрудничеству и конструктивному взаимодействию. 🇷🇺С Днём России! #ДеньРоссии2026

#KidsSpeak 🗓 On June 6, ahead of #RussiaDay, the awards ceremony for the 8th International Competition “Tell the World About Your Homeland” took place. 📄 Winners Lists Participants from 67 countries submitted projects filled with genuine love for their native land. Through drawings, presentations, and videos, they shared stories about the most interesting events, traditions, and memorable places. 👉 Here are some those kids' videos, that showcase how they love and cherish their Motherland. *** "Tell the World About Your Homeland" is a competition aimed at fostering patriotic patriotism in children and youth, instilling in the younger generation a sense of love and respect for their native land, and developing friendly interethnic relations. The competition is included in the List of Events for the 2025/26 academic year, approved by the Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation. Based on the results of the Competition, all participants receive electronic certificates, mentors receive electronic letters of appreciation, and the winners receive diplomas and commemorative prizes. All winners are invited to a gala awards ceremony in Moscow attended by government and public figures. 👉 Watch the recording of the awards ceremony for the winners of the 8th International Competition “Tell the World About Your Homeland” (in Russian)

🎙 By tradition, on Russia Day, President Vladimir Putin presented the gold medals of the Hero of Labour of the Russian Federation and the 2025 Russian Federation National Awards in science and technology, literature and the arts, for outstanding achievements in human rights and charity work, in the Grand Kremlin Palace’s St George’s Hall (June 12, 2026) 💬 Vladimir Putin: Friends, colleagues, congratulations on Russia Day! We are celebrating this holiday with warmth and affection for our Motherland, with pride for grand achievements in industry and military service by many generations of our ancestors, with respect for key events in Russian history and, of course, with understanding that all stages in our state’s evolution over 1,000 years form a single journey. A deep, personal feeling for Russia is part of our mentality. For Russian people, solidarity and patriotism have always been the greatest values that helped us overcome any difficulties, defeat enemies, build our country, and preserve our historical and cultural legacy. A sincere sense of responsibility for our Fatherland is a feeling known to every one of us. And forparticipants in the special military operation, this is a solid spiritual support, much like the support our heroes receive from the entire Russian nation and our entire society. We all share the same goals. Courage and perseverance in achieving these goals are qualities possessed by everyone receiving high honours today. *** The heights you have reached are within the grasp of extraordinary, strong, and generous people, those for whom their work and profession become the very meaning of life. I sincerely thank every one of you. My heartfelt congratulations on these high state awards. <…> Friends, To close our ceremony, I would like to add a few words, building on what has just been said here. One of the awardees remarked that she had spent her whole life doing what she loved and never imagined she would be recognised for it. And that, I think, is precisely the point. Today is Russia Day. As we honour outstanding citizens of our country, we are, of course, thinking about young people – about future generations. The task of society and the state is to help them find their calling, so that each of them can discover something they truly enjoy and achieve remarkable success. Just like our award recipients today. Another recipient said: “We had a dream.” So, may we all have a dream – one we can turn into reality and work towards. It was also said that Saint Luke endured severe trials because he was with God. Today, on Russia Day, the Almighty, the Lord, is always with our country. 🇷🇺 Happy Russia Day! Read in full

📆 On June 11, 2026, the Consulate General of Russia in Montreal, together with the Representation of the Russian Federation to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), held an official reception on the occasion of Russia Day. The event was attended by representatives of the consular corps accredited in Montreal, permanent missions of ICAO Member States, as well as business, academic, public and religious circles. 💬 In his welcoming remarks, Representative of the Russian Federation to ICAO Alexander Batalov congratulated the guests on Russia’s national holiday and emphasized the special significance of Russia Day:

Russia Day is a holiday for all the peoples of our country, who for centuries have lived together, creating a unique Russian World — united in its diversity, bringing together Europe and Asia, and ensuring the harmonious coexistence of different religions, cultures and traditions.

❗️Alexander Batalov stressed that modern Russia, relying on its traditions, spiritual and moral values, and commitment to truth and justice, is a state of advanced technologies and innovation, one of the leaders in space exploration, and remains open to equal cooperation and constructive engagement. 🇷🇺 Happy Russia Day! #RussiaDay2026

🇷🇺 Happy #RussiaDay, Dear All! 💬 Love you, O Russia mine, Like a song's own word, The forests, rivers, endless fields. Love all that heart's embrace By one vast and timeless name: #Русь. #Russia1Love #RussiaDay2026

🇷🇺 Video address of H.E.Oleg Stepanov, Ambassador of Russia to Canada, on the occasion of Russia Day (June 12, 2026) 💬 Dear compatriots! Dear friends! I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on the occasion of Russia Day! We are witnessing and participating in truly tectonic shifts in global politics. Before our eyes, a more complex, diverse and, one would like to believe, more just international order is taking shape. A growing number of countries are eager to determine their own destiny, define their own future and choose their own path of development, guided by national interests, historical experience and culture. ❗️These changes correspond to Russia’s interests. Our country addresses them with confidence. As a distinctive civilization-state, a permanent member of the UN Security Council, and one of the pillars of a polycentric world. We consistently stand for stability and predictability in international relations. We proceed from the principles of the supremacy of international law and the UN Charter. We stand for equal dialogue among actors in international life, respect for sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs. Russia has been and remains a bearer and defender of traditional spiritual and moral values. For centuries, through our own example, we have demonstrated the possibility of harmonious coexistence among peoples, religions and cultures. Our land unites four world religions — Christianity, Islam, Buddhism and Judaism. Orthodox Christianity is the historical and spiritual foundation of our statehood. At the same time, it is precisely openness and respect for diversity that have made it possible to create an atmosphere of peace and harmony across our vast Eurasian space. Russia does not seek to impose its way of life on anyone. We seek confrontation with no one. Yet we will continue to pursue an independent and sovereign foreign policy. We pay a special price for our right to remain ourselves. History shows, however, that any challenges only strengthen our state and our people, making us stronger. Despite unprecedented challenges, Russia continues to develop dynamically, makes a distinct contribution to addressing the pressing tasks facing humanity, and remains committed to ensuring global energy and food security. We invite our friends, and all those who show reciprocal interest, to work together on a common future. One that is mutually beneficial and, most importantly, just. 🇷🇺🇨🇦 On June 12, we celebrate not only Russia Day but also the day of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and Canada. In this regard, we sincerely wish to see Canada as a good and predictable neighbor. This remains one of the principal objectives of Russian diplomacy on the Canadian track. Dear friends! 🇷🇺Russia’s strength lies in its people, in our unity, and in our fidelity to our traditions, values, and ideals. Wherever life may take us, may we always be united by our love for our Motherland, by our reverence for its great history, and by our pride in its achievements. Happy holiday! Happy Russia Day! #Russia1Love #RussiaDay

📆11 июня 2026 г. в Посольстве России в Канаде состоялся торжественный прием по случаю Дня России. В мероприятии приняли участие представители аккредитованного в Оттаве дипломатического корпуса, деловых, научных и религиозных кругов. 💬 В своем выступлении Посол России в Канаде О.В.Степанов отметил: Мы с вами – свидетели и участники поистине тектонических сдвигов глобальной политики. На наших глазах формируется более сложный, разнообразный и, хочется верить, справедливый международный порядок. Растущее число стран стремится самостоятельно распоряжаться своей судьбой, определять собственное будущее и путь развития, исходя из национальных интересов, исторического опыта и культурных традиций. ❗️Посол подчеркнул, что эти изменения отвечают интересам России как государства-цивилизации, постоянного члена Совета Безопасности ООН и одной из опор формирующегося полицентричного мира. Россия неизменно выступает за устойчивость и предсказуемость международных отношений, уважение суверенитета государств, невмешательство во внутренние дела и строгое соблюдение принципов международного права и Устава ООН. 🇨🇺В речи Посол отдельно выразил солидарность с народом Кубы, который на протяжении десятилетий отстаивает свое право на независимость. Диктат и угрозы никогда не дают результата. Решение существующих проблем возможно лишь путем диалога и взаимного уважения. О.В.Степанов также затронул ситуацию в Арктике, осудив попытки ряда государств вести дело к милитаризации региона. Предупредив, что любое наращивание военной активности неизбежно ведет к ответным мерам, посол вместе с тем подчеркнул, что Россия не заинтересована в конфронтации и готова к сотрудничеству в вопросах развития транспортных маршрутов, безопасности судоходства, охраны окружающей среды и защиты традиционного уклада жизни коренных народов. 🇷🇺 С Днём России! Полный текст выступления #ДеньРоссии2026

📆 On June 11, 2026, the Russian Embassy in Canada hosted a reception on the occasion of Russia Day. The event was attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in Ottawa, as well as business, academic and religious circles. 💬 In his remarks, Russian Ambassador to Canada Oleg Stepanov noted:

We are witnessing and participating in truly tectonic shifts in global politics. Before our eyes, a more complex, diverse and, one would like to believe, more just international order is taking shape. A growing number of countries are eager to determine their own destiny, define their own future and choose their own path of development, guided by national interests, historical experience and culture.

❗️The Ambassador emphasized that these changes correspond to Russia’s interests as a distinctive civilization-state, a permanent member of the UN Security Council, and one of the pillars of a polycentric world. Russia consistently stands for stability and predictability in international relations, respect for sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, and the supremacy of international law and the UN Charter. 🇨🇺 In his speech, Ambassador Stepanov also expressed Russia’s solidarity with the people of Cuba, who for decades have defended their right to independence.

Pressure and threats never yield results. Existing problems can only be resolved through dialogue and mutual respect.

The Ambassador also touched upon the situation in the Arctic, stressing that Russia does not seek confrontation and remains ready for cooperation in developing transport routes, ensuring the safety of navigation, protecting the environment and preserving the way of life of Indigenous communities. At the same time, he noted that any unilateral military build-up inevitably generates reciprocal steps. 🇷🇺 Happy Russia Day! Full text of the address

🇷🇺 Видеообращение Посла России в Канаде О.В.Степанова к соотечественникам по случаю Дня России (12 июня 2026 г.) 💬Уважаемые соотечественники! Дорогие друзья! Поздравляю вас с праздником, с Днем России! Сегодня мы с вами – свидетели и участники по истине тектонических сдвигов глобальной политики. На наших глазах формируется более сложный, разнообразный и, хочется верить, справедливый международный порядок. Растущее число стран стремится самостоятельно распоряжаться своей судьбой, определять собственное будущее и путь развития, исходя из национальных интересов, исторического опыта и культурных традиций. ❗️Эти изменения отвечают интересам России. Наша страна встречает их в полный рост, как самобытное государство-цивилизация, постоянный член СБ ООН, одна из опор полицентричного мира. Мы неизменно выступаем за устойчивость и предсказуемость международных отношений. Последовательно исходим из принципов верховенства международного права и Устава ООН. Мы – за равноправное общение между участниками международной жизни, уважение суверенитета, невмешательство во внутренние дела. Россия была и остается носителем и защитницей традиционных духовно-нравственных ценностей. На протяжении веков своим примером доказываем возможность гармоничного сосуществования народов, религий и культур. Наша земля объединяет четыре мировые конфессии – христианство, ислам, буддизм и иудаизм. Православное христианство – это исторический духовный стержень нашей государственности. Но именно открытость и уважение к многообразию позволили создать на нашем огромном евразийском пространстве атмосферу мира и согласия. Россия никому не навязывает свой образ жизни. Ни с кем не ищет конфронтации. Но будет продолжать придерживаться независимого и суверенного внешнеполитического курса. За это право оставаться собой мы платим особую цену. Тем не менее история показывает: любые испытания лишь укрепляют наше государство и народ, делают нас сильнее. Несмотря на беспрецедентные вызовы, Россия динамично развивается, вносит особый вклад в решение актуальных задач, стоящих перед всем человечеством, привержена обеспечению глобальной энергетической и продовольственной безопасности. Предлагаем нашим друзьям, всем, кто проявляет встречную заинтересованность, работать совместно над общим будущим – взаимовыгодным, а главное – справедливым. 🇷🇺🇨🇦12 июня мы отмечаем не только День России, но и дату установления двусторонних дипломатический отношений с Канадой. В этом смысле искренне хотели бы видеть в «стране кленового листа» доброго и предсказуемого соседа. Именно в этом заключается одна из важнейших задач российской дипломатии на канадском направлении. Дорогие друзья! 🇷🇺Россия сильна народом, нашей сплоченностью, верностью своим традициям, ценностям и идеалам. Где бы ни проходила наша жизнь, пусть нас всегда объединяют любовь к Отчизне, к ее великой истории и гордость за ее достижения! С Праздником! С Днем России!