By: Thomas I. Likness
Eagle News Service

(Eagle News) — The arrest of journalist Roman Protasevich after a Ryanair flight was diverted to the Belarus capital of Minsk on the weekend is outrageous, illegal and completely unacceptable, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Tuesday.

“This was a clear attack on democracy and on the freedom of the press,” Trudeau told a news conference. “We condemn it and call for his immediate release.”

On Sunday, the flight bound from Greece to Lithuania landed in Minsk Sunday after authorities told the crew there was a bomb aboard the plane.  It was intercepted by a military fighter jet.

Once on the ground, Protasevich was arrested. The plane then continued on to Lithuania.

Trudeau had harsh words for Belarusian authorities.

“We also condemn this kind of interference in civil aviation,” said Trudeau.

In response, Trudeau says his government is considering more actions against Belarus.

“Canada has existing sanctions against Belarus and will be examining further options,” he said. “We stand in solidarity with our partners in defending journalist all around the globe.”

Belarus has announced it will close its embassy in Canada.

Trudeau says Canada will support action through international institutions, including the International Civil Aviation Organization, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe and NATO.

The EU has banned airlines from Belarus from its airspace and landing at its airports. As well, pilots are being told to avoid flying over Belarusian airspace.
(Eagle News Service)