Canadian soldiers stationed near the Russian border in Latvia report receiving both insults and open arms from locals. The Canadian government has dismissed concerns about international blowback following its decision to ban Russian and Belarusian teams from the World Juniors hockey tournament. The government maintains that the ban is not expected to provoke significant international repercussions. The soldiers have been deployed for training exercises in Latvia, which borders Russia. The ban on Russian and Belarusian teams from the tournament was announced as a response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Canadian government has emphasized the importance of the ban to uphold the principles of fair play and international cooperation. The soldiers have been encountered a range of reactions from locals in Latvia. Some locals have expressed fear that the soldiers may be involved in military conflicts. Others have welcomed the soldiers with open arms. The government has assured the public that the ban will not cause significant international repercussions. The soldiers have been stationed to support international relations. The ban on Russian and Belarusian teams from the tournament was announced as a response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Canadian government has stated that the ban is necessary to uphold the principles of fair play and international cooperation. The soldiers have been welcomed by some locals in Latvia.