On Friday, September 22nd, 2023, during a visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Canada’s Parliament extended a standing ovation to 98-year-old WWII veteran Yaroslav Hunka, honoring his contributions to Ukrainian independence against the Russians (Soviets) during WWII. However, concerns arose when it was revealed that Hunka was a former member of the Waffen-SS Galicia Division—a Nazi unit.
Swift apologies followed, and Speaker of the House, Anthony Rota, resigned from his position for introducing Hunka to Parliament. Justin Trudeau issued a typically Liberal, half-hearted apology, taking the opportunity to address alleged Russian misinformation.
Hunka now faces the possibility of deportation to Poland, and Canada’s global image took a hit, with Trudeau and other Parliamentarians facing criticism ranging from being labeled Nazi sympathizers to being accused of ignorance regarding history.
Salim Mansur of Western University sheds light on how someone like Hunka could be honored by Canada’s Parliament, emphasizing the importance of understanding Canada’s history and the prevailing ideology of today’s politicians.
Examining the current state of Canada under Trudeau, parallels with Germany during the Weimar Republic and the Nazis are highlighted, raising concerns about the ominous direction the country is heading.
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