MPs question Ottawa's plans for Ukrainians fleeing Russian advance

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is being pressed by MPs to explain his plans to help Ukrainians fleeing the Russian invasion during a special Monday evening debate in the House of Commons.

The debate began at 6:30 p.m. ET and will last up to four hours.

You can watch the event live on this page.

Trudeau was first to speak during the debate, which is taking place under a special format that allows MPs to address national issues in a more wide-ranging, detailed fashion, compared to typical debates on specific legislation.

"This invasion is unjust, unprovoked and illegal," Trudeau said.

"With the unfolding tragedy in Ukraine, the whole world is reminded once again just how fragile peace can be."

After expressing what he called Canada's "united" support for Ukraine, the prime minister was pushed by opposition parties to explain various elements of Canada's response to the crisis — including its plans to welcome Ukrainians fleeing the war.

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh called the invasion a humanitarian crisis and said "Canada must do its part as countries around the world are stepping up."

The government says it has processed nearly 4,000 immigration applications by Ukrainians on a priority basis during the crisis. But Trudeau was asked more than once why Ottawa has not lifted visa requirements for asylum-seeking Ukrainians.

The Conservatives also questioned Trudeau about his plans to promote Canadian natural resources as countries shut down trade with Russia, which is a critical source of natural gas to much of Europe.

Conservative interim leader Candice Bergen said the Liberal government's failure to promote Canadian natural gas in Europe has forced Canada's allies to become overly reliant on Russia.

"It is clearer than ever that Canada's oil and gas is vital to the security and sovereignty of both Canada and Europe," she said.

WATCH | Federal leaders debate Canada's response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine

Singh also said Canada and its allies could create "significant leverage" against Russian President Vladimir Putin by further targeting Russia's oligarchs. Some prominent financial experts — including Bill Browder, who was mentioned by Singh — argue that much of Putin's wealth is secretly held by those oligarchs.