Canada–Russia relations

Canada and Russia have longstanding bilateral relations (previously between Canada and the Soviet Union). As vast northern countries, Canada and Russia share some interests and cooperative policies. However, the open and democratic political system of Canada contrasts with the closed Russian system, as was the case during the communist era of the Soviet Union (USSR).

Under the Presidency of Vladimir Putin, the Canadian government has routinely criticized the erosion of Russian democracy, persistent human rights abuses, and hostile foreign policy towards Canada and its NATO allies. In 2014, relations significantly deteriorated as a result of the Russian annexation of Crimea and Russian involvement in the War in Donbas. Relations between Russia and Canada reached a state of near-total collapse after the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Some commentators argue that Russia-Canada relations since 2014 are more hostile and confrontational than at any point during the Cold War.