Ontario’s Liberal Leader wants to send a clear message to Russian President Vladimir Putin by pulling bottles of Russian alcohol from the shelves of the LCBO.
“Our allies in Ukraine are under attack by Russia and need our help,” said Steven Del Duca. “Pulling Russian vodka from the shelves of the LCBO is an immediate action Ontario can take to demonstrate our solidarity with the people of Ukraine.”
Del Duca has written the President and CEO of the LCBO, George Soleas, requesting swift action.
It is not the first time politicians have used food or drink to make a political point. Shortly after the September 11 attacks, the U.S. government, inspired by a restaurant in North Carolina, renamed French fries “freedom fries” in three Congressional cafeterias.
The restaurant owner said he got inspiration from a movement during World War I to rename sauerkraut “liberty cabbage.”
The LCBO is one of the largest purchasers of alcohol worldwide, and he said banning the sale of those products will prevent further money from going to Russia during their invasion.
“Any and all means of cutting off Russia’s economy should be considered,” added Del Duca. “I hope the LCBO will consider this measure as another way to restrict Russia’s trade.”
A release from the Ontario Liberal Party specifically named bottles of Russian Standard, Russian Standard Gold, Legends of Kremlin Premium, and Beluga Russian Luxury brands.
The Ontario government has already pledged $300,000 in humanitarian aid for the people of Ukraine. The money will go to the Canada-Ukraine Foundation.
The province has also offered to assist anyone fleeing Ukraine and needs settlement services, including housing, employment, and health services.
“We know the required humanitarian support will be significant, and we are grateful to the government and the people of Ontario for supporting this worthy endeavour,” said Orest Skilierenko, the President of the Foundation.
According to Al Jazeera Friday morning, the death toll from the first day of Russia’s assault on Ukraine was 137, many of whom were civilians.
