The Canadian government has seized a Russian-registered Antonov An-124 cargo plane at Toronto Pearson International Airport. The plane, which is one of the largest cargo planes in the world, has been grounded at the airport since February 2022, when Canada closed its airspace to Russian aircraft. The plane is owned by Volga-Dnepr Airlines, a Russian cargo carrier. The company has been sanctioned by Canada and other countries for its role in Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
The seizure of the plane is a significant development in Canada's efforts to pressure Russia to end its war in Ukraine. It is also a sign that Canada is willing to take strong measures against Russian businesses and individuals that are involved in the war.
The Antonov An-124 is a strategic airlift cargo aircraft developed by the Antonov Design Bureau in the Soviet Union. It is the largest cargo aircraft in the world by maximum takeoff weight and has a payload capacity of up to 150 tons. The plane is used by a variety of military and commercial operators around the world.
The seizure of the Antonov An-124 is a significant loss for Volga-Dnepr Airlines. The plane was one of the company's most important assets and was used to transport a wide variety of cargo, including humanitarian aid, military equipment, and commercial goods. The seizure of the plane is also a setback for Russia. The plane was a valuable asset for the Russian military and was used to transport a variety of equipment and supplies to its forces in Ukraine. The seizure of the Antonov An-124 is a sign that Canada is committed to using its economic power to pressure Russia to end its war in Ukraine. The move is also a reminder of the importance of international cooperation in the face of aggression.