Zelensky says Moscow will see Canada's decision to return turbines as 'weakness'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is blasting the Canadian government over its decision to return to Germany natural gas turbines caught up in sanctions imposed on Russia, calling the move "absolutely unacceptable" and warning that Moscow will see it as a sign of weakness.

Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson announced Saturday that the turbines will be making their way back to Germany after the Canadian government allowed what he called a "time-limited and revocable" exemption to its current sanctions on Russia. The move came as Canada imposed new sanctions on Russian agents and entities in response to its invasion of Ukraine.

But Zelensky wasn't pleased with the decision.

"If a terrorist state can squeeze out such an exception to sanctions, what exceptions will it want tomorrow or the day after tomorrow? This question is very dangerous," Zelensky said in his nightly address on Monday.

"Moreover, it is dangerous not only for Ukraine, but also for all countries of the democratic world."

Zelensky called on the Canadian government reverse the decision.

"Of course, this decision on one turbine, which leads to many other problems, can still be revised," he said. "Russia has never played by the rules in the energy sector and it will not play now unless it sees strength."

In an interview with CBC's Power & Politics, Ukraine's Ambassador to Canada Yulia Kovaliv said Ukraine will continue to discuss the issue with the Canadian government in the coming weeks.

WATCH | Canada setting a 'dangerous precedent' by releasing turbines: Ukraine

"We do appreciate a lot of support that the Canadian government provided to Ukraine in different spheres, and we still hope that this decision will be revoked," she told guest host Paul Hunter.

Kovaliv said revenue from the pipeline will contribute to the bloodshed in Ukraine.

"Russia is using energy as a weapon, in Europe and all over the world," Kovalev said.

"This money and fuel are going to support the war in Ukraine ... we need to hold united, all together, to maintain this unity in the sanctions and not waver in them."

Wilkinson says the decision was necessary and that German livelihoods are at risk.