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Justin Trudeau says pandemic 'really sucks'

"We are in an unprecedented global pandemic, that really sucks."

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's blunt assessment of the global health crisis came on Tuesday, as Canada approaches 10,000 deaths from COVID-19.

And with cases continuing to rise, Trudeau predicts a tough winter ahead with more lockdown restrictions needed.

" It's easy for us to want to thrown up our hands. I think we have to ask ourselves who we really are as Canadians. Are we really good neighbors? Are we really people who care about the most vulnerable, about each other? I know we are."

On Monday, Canada reported more than 4,000 new cases, prompting Quebec province to extend a shutdown of bars, gyms and restaurant dining rooms in hotspots like Montreal.

Alberta has also limited social gatherings to 15 people, and there are similar restrictions in British Columbia.

Trudeau made clear that the measures could last until Christmas, and said his son feared they would last forever.

"It's frustrating knowing that unless we are really really careful, there may not be the kind of family gatherings we want to have at Christmas. My six-year old asked me a few weeks ago, 'Dad is COVID-19 forever?"

Canadians are used to Trudeau taking a more upbeat tone; his comments mark a rare show of emotion and frustration.

They're also in stark contrast to other world leaders, such as U.S. President Donald Trump, who have sought to play down the pandemic.