Say goodbye to Russian vodka.
BC officials are halting the importing and sale of liquor products produced in Russia from stores across the province, effective immediately.
The move comes as BC joins Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and allied nations in “deploring Russia’s invasion of Ukraine,” according to Solicitor General Mike Farnworth.
“Our province stands with those who understand Europe’s peace following two world wars depends on respecting international law,” Farnworth said.
His Friday statement followed a plea from newly-elected BC Liberals leader Kevin Falcon, calling on the provincial government to enforce the alcohol ban.
“We should do all we can to support the people of Ukraine and not benefit Putin’s regime while this unprovoked aggression continues,” Falcon said.
Throughout Canada, stores in provinces like Ontario, Manitoba and Nova Scotia have also implemented a stop to the sale of Russian liquor.
Our @bcndp government has put an immediate halt to the importing and sale of Russian liquor products from BC Liquor Stores and BC liquor distribution centres.
We stand with those who want to live in peace and against those who commit deplorable and illegal acts of aggression.
— John Horgan (@jjhorgan) February 25, 2022
Meanwhile, Farnworth says BC is contributing $1 million for the Red Cross to support the people of Ukraine. He notes the funds will go to those “suffering from this illegal act of war.”
“We are working with Ottawa on how British Columbia can support the coordinated sanctions from the federal government,” Farnworth added.
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