Former Liberal cabinet minister Chrystia Freeland has announced her resignation from Parliament, signaling the end of an era for the party. The prominent MP revealed her decision to step down on Friday to take on a voluntary advisory role for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Freeland shared her intentions on social media, expressing her commitment to supporting Canada and advocating for Ukraine.
As a politician with Ukrainian roots, Freeland served as deputy prime minister from 2019 to 2024 and made history as Canada’s first female finance minister. She has been a vocal critic of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and has represented the University-Rosedale riding in downtown Toronto since 2015.
The Conservative Party has criticized Freeland for accepting a position advising a foreign government while remaining a Member of Parliament, questioning potential conflicts of interest. Despite this, Freeland consulted with the federal ethics commissioner and followed his guidance. Her resignation will prompt a by-election in her Toronto riding, which is traditionally a stronghold for the Liberals.
After departing Canadian politics, Freeland will assume the role of CEO at the Rhodes Trust educational charity in the United Kingdom starting July 1. Her departure marks a significant transition in Canadian politics, with speculations arising about her successor in the University-Rosedale constituency.