Canada designates seven criminal organizations as terrorist entities

Canada's federal government has officially designated seven transnational criminal organizations as terrorist entities under the Criminal Code, a move aimed at combating fentanyl trafficking. Public Safety Minister David McGuinty stated that these organizations use extreme violence and are involved in drug trafficking, human trafficking, and illegal arms trade. This designation allows for the freezing and seizure of the assets and properties of listed groups. The initiative is partly a response to U.S. criticism regarding the flow of drugs, including fentanyl, across the border, despite statistics showing minimal fentanyl seizures at the northern border. The Canadian government is expressing its commitment to enhance security measures to address the opioid crisis. The action follows threats from U.S. President Donald Trump to impose tariffs on Canadian goods due to concerns about drug trafficking.