WASHINGTON, September 23 (HS/RIA Novosti) - The potential severance of relations between Russia and Canada remains a hypothetical issue for now, regardless of the ongoing crisis in bilateral ties, Russian Ambassador to Canada Oleg Stepanov told RIA Novosti.

A severance of diplomatic relations is a deliberate practical step that always serves a specific purpose and is taken within the framework of a particular foreign policy scenario. For now, the issue appears to be hypothetical. But it is being raised frequently, Stepanov said.

He added that the very fact that such a question is being raised reflects the state of relations between Moscow and Ottawa, saying that it is also a sign of a bilateral climate that is far from favorable.

Since the start of the Russian special military operation in Ukraine, Canada has adopted an anti-Russian stance, actively supported Kiev and imposed illegal unilateral sanctions against Russia.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar