US media: Protests by truck drivers in Canada have escalated to block major U.S.-Canada border crossings

Source: Reference News Network

Reference News Network reported on February 10 that according to the Washington Post website on February 8, one of the busiest crossing points on the land border between the United States and Canada was blocked because protests against COVID-19 vaccination requirements and other public health measures spread to this important trade artery. Previously, the truckers' protests had paralyzed the Canadian capital.

The Canada Border Services Agency said Tuesday that the Ambassador Bridge, which connects Windsor, Ontario, Canada, and Detroit, Michigan, was "temporarily closed" to passenger and business traffic. Windsor police said only "limited traffic" is currently allowed into the United States.

The suspension bridge across the Detroit River is an important trade link between the United States and Canada, especially the automotive industries of the two countries. For people living on the border, the bridge is also a gateway for family, friends and many important staff, including Canadian nurses working at Detroit area hospitals.

The Ambassador Bridge has been blocked since Monday and it is unclear when it will be lifted.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday urged drivers involved in the Freedom Motorcade protests to return home. Since Jan. 28, these drivers have been driving large trucks that have blocked major roads in downtown Ottawa.

Speaking at an emergency debate in Parliament, Trudeau said: "There are people who are trying to block our economy, our democracy and the daily lives of our citizens. This behavior must cease. Ottawa people should not be harassed in their own communities. ”