According to recent news sources, the speaker of Canada’s House of Commons, Anthony Rota, is apologizing after praising a Ukrainian Nazi veteran. 

According to this TikTok video posted by user @jaysgirl44, former Ukranian Nazi veteran Yaroslav Hunka, 98, received a standing ovation in parliament following a speech by Rota praising his war efforts. However, Canadian Jewish group – CIJA- came out to state it was “deeply troubled” that a veteran of a Nazi division was being honored, as noted here.

@jaysgirl44

How could this possibly happen!! #canada #cdnpolitics #cdnpoli #oops #parliament

♬ original sound – Shay

Nazi House of Commons

During the interaction, Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was present with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, as noted here. Rota claimed Hunka was, “a Ukrainian hero, a Canadian hero, and we thank him for all his service”.

Following the public recognition, Rota was heavily criticized and has since released a public statement and apology addressing the situation, claiming (as noted here):

“In my remarks following the address of the president of Ukraine, I recognized an individual in the gallery. I have subsequently become aware of more information which causes me to regret my decision to do so. I particularly want to extend my deepest apologies to Jewish communities in Canada and around the world. I accept full responsibility for my actions.”

Commenters in the TikTik video are also allegedly calling for Rota’s resignation.

What do you think about the latest news?

Published by HOLR Magazine.