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G7 Foreign Ministers Meet in Niagara to Hear Ukraine’s Plea Amid Escalating War

Top diplomats from the Group of Seven (G7) nations gathered in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario , for high-stakes talks with Ukraine’s Foreign Minister as Russia intensifies its assault on Ukraine’s power grid. The meeting, hosted by Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand , comes at a critical moment as rolling blackouts sweep across Ukraine ahead of winter. Foreign ministers from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the European Union posed for a family photo before beginning discussions. Ukraine’s foreign minister is expected to brief the group on the humanitarian and security consequences of Russia’s latest attacks, which have left millions vulnerable to freezing temperatures. The summit is not limited to Ukraine. Ministers are also addressing broader geopolitical challenges, including instability in the Middle East and shifting trade relationships. Still, Ukraine remains the centerpiece of the agenda, with G7 leaders reaffirming ...

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Marineland’s Whales Face Uncertain Future as Park Pleads for Federal Aid



Marineland, the embattled tourist attraction in Niagara Falls, Ontario, has issued an urgent appeal to the federal government for emergency funding to feed and care for its remaining whales. Without immediate support, the park warns, euthanasia may be the only option left.

The plea follows Ottawa’s recent decision to deny Marineland’s request to export 30 beluga whales to Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in China. Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson said the move was consistent with Canada’s 2019 legislation banning the captivity and breeding of whales and dolphins for entertainment purposes.

Marineland, which has been up for sale since early 2023, says it is fully indebted and rapidly running out of resources. The park has asked for operating funds to sustain the animals until a suitable relocation can be arranged. However, no sanctuary or facility currently meets the conditions set by the federal government.

Since 2019, 20 whales — including one orca and 19 belugas — have died at the park, raising further concerns about animal welfare. Marineland insists it is trying to avoid euthanasia but stresses that without government intervention, the future of its whales remains grim.


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