Ottawa, Canada – February 25, 2025 – Green Party of Canada leader Elizabeth May is facing intense criticism after a Facebook post in which she reaffirmed her unwavering support for Ukraine generated over 300 comments. While May has claimed that backing Ukraine is a stance in favour of democracy and sovereignty, many Canadians took to the comment section to reject her position, accusing her of supporting NATO’s proxy war and blocking efforts for peace.
“We”? Who are “We”? Do we support the Banderites? The Azov Brigade? The manipulators of the Maidan coup? The Ukrainians who shelled the Donbas? Zelensky, who has refused to call a mandated election? It seems, May, that your stance on Ukraine is no more nuanced, no more humane, than your stance on Gaza. How are you any better than the parliamentarians who cheered for Yaroslav Hunka? Stop pretending that you represent anything beyond your own corporate media-distorted worldview.
Mark Fuller Dillon on Facebook
May’s stance contrasts sharply with that of other Green Party figures worldwide and in Canada. Jill Stein, leader of the U.S. Green Party, has repeatedly denounced NATO’s involvement, calling it a reckless escalation. Alex Tyrrell, leader of the Green Party of Quebec, has also been very vocal, arguing that Canada’s involvement fuels militarism rather than diplomacy.
Tyrrell, who has repeatedly criticized May over her pro-NATO stance, issued a scathing statement:
“From day one, Elizabeth May has opposed a peaceful resolution and negotiations. She has zero credibility as a voice for peace. Her position is completely out of step with Green values, and her support for NATO’s war machine is disgraceful.”
Public Backlash: “No, We Don’t Stand With Ukraine”
May’s Facebook post was met with an overwhelming number of critical responses, with many dismissing her claim that Canada stands with Ukraine.
“No we do not stand with Ukraine. Get out and stay away. No war for Canada.” – Aiev Marwillyne Phillips
Another commenter pointed to the billions of dollars being sent to Ukraine at a time when many Canadians are struggling with economic issues at home:
“$5 Billion$ is a lot of support isn’t it?” – Pam Johnstone
Some questioned whether the financial aid is being used appropriately or if it is simply fueling corruption: “The Canadian politicians stand with their money launderer…… Big surprise….”
Is Zelensky a Defender of Democracy?
Many of May’s critics challenged the idea that Ukraine remains a democracy, noting that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s term officially expired in May 2024, yet he has refused to hold elections.
“Zelensky is a criminal, Canada and the US are using this war to funnel money.” – Vincent Otf Valentine
Others pushed back against May’s pro-NATO framing, arguing that Ukraine’s government is the result of U.S. intervention:
“You forget NATO’s illegal incursions against Russia for 30 years. You forget Zelensky was installed by the US in 2014 as a NATO-friendly puppet.” – Gary Bandzmer
Several commenters argued that NATO, not Russia, is responsible for the war and that Western intervention has only prolonged the suffering.
“NATO started the war not Putin. The west is responsible!” – Robert Gerling
“What on earth is wrong with the Canadian political system that they have still not caught up to truth. A war instigated by the USA and NATO for 8 yrs. Shame on ya.” – Julie Troy Gunton
Trump Pledges to End the War—May Supports More Fighting
A number of critics pointed out that even Donald Trump has promised to end the war through negotiations, yet May continues to support further military aid and escalation.
“The #Left broke it, Donald J. Trump will fix it.” – Trevor Marr
Support for May: A Weak Defense
While most of the response was overwhelmingly critical, a handful of supporters defended May, though their arguments did little to sway her critics.
“She speaks for me!” – Valerie Powell
Another defender thanked May for her stance but avoided addressing the criticisms directly:
“Thank you, Elizabeth, for your courage and diligence in fighting for what is right, for Canada and our world. Thank you for being our MP!!❤” – Sharon Sinclair
Despite these comments, critics overwhelmingly outnumbered supporters in the discussion, with many accusing May’s backers of ignoring the realities of the war.
A Missed Opportunity for an Anti-War Voice
May’s firm pro-Ukraine stance is not just controversial within the Green movement—it may also be a miscalculation politically. With public frustration over continued military aid rising, she is missing a key opportunity to position herself as an anti-war voice, a position that has historically benefited Green politicians.
In the United States, President Joe Biden has seen his approval ratings drop amid growing discontent over his handling of foreign conflicts, particularly among young and progressive voters who are increasingly skeptical of U.S. interventionism. May risks alienating a similar voter base in Canada, where anti-war sentiment has been growing as the Ukraine conflict drags on.
Calls for May’s Resignation Grow
With opposition to Canada’s role in the war increasing, many commenters demanded that May step down for abandoning Green Party principles and failing to push for diplomacy.
“Read the room, Elizabeth. No one is interested in funding a losing cause, nor support war mongers.” – Tammy Jay French
While May has yet to directly respond to the backlash, her isolation within the Green movement is becoming more apparent. Once considered a champion of peace and non-violence, Elizabeth “Bombs Away” May is now facing mounting criticism for her unwavering support of NATO’s war effort.
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