President Donald Trump has struck a controversial deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin to revive Russia’s agriculture and fertilizer trade.
According to a White House press release, the United States will assist Russia in regaining access to the world market for agricultural and fertilizer exports.
This includes lowering maritime insurance costs and improving access to ports and payment systems.
This deal with Putin has sent shockwaves through Saskatchewan, where potash mining and agriculture are crucial parts of the economy.
Moe expressed his frustrations at the “disturbing deal” between Trump and Putin.
“The sanctions that essentially the world have put on a number of goods that Russia would like to provide to the world were so that Russia would be unable to finance their illegal invasion of Ukraine,” said Moe.
“For the President of the United States to be sitting down with Vladimir Putin or the Russian government, a Russian regime, without Ukraine at the table and coming to conclusions that they are going to look at ways to open up access for Russian goods to be provided to the world.”
“This is extremely disturbing and disappointing,” tweeted Moe.
“No country should be normalizing its trade relations with Russia until they end their unlawful and unjustified invasion of Ukraine.”
Sask NDP Leader Carla Beck blasted the agreement, calling it a direct attack on Ukraine and a grave threat to the province’s industries.
“Despite Ukrainians dying every day in Putin’s war of aggression, Trump has agreed to help restore Russia’s access to the world market,” said Beck.
“When coupled with the tariffs, this could shutter potash mines and bankrupt farmers across Saskatchewan.”
Beck also criticized Premier Scott Moe, saying he has been “soft on Trump” and not until today has Moe condemned Trump by name.
Beck asked Moe to take a firm stand and reassure residents that the province is fighting for their interests.