Justin Trudeau has resigned as Canada's prime minister after nine years in power, saying that parliament had become "paralysed" under his leadership.

       Mr Trudeau announced his decision in a press conference amid plummeting approval ratings and pressure from MPs inside his party.

       The PM, who has led the country’s Liberal Party since 2013, endured a torrid 2024 - with polls projecting that his party is set for a heavy defeat in this year’s general election, which must be held before October.

       Mr Trudeau said: "Over the holidays, I've also had a chance to reflect and have had long talks with my family about our future.

       "I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust nationwide competitive process.

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       "I care deeply about Canadians. I care deeply about this country and I will always be motivated by what is best for Canadians.

       "That is why this morning, I advised the Governor General that we need a new session of parliament."

       The departing Mr Trudeau said the country deserves a "real choice" in the forthcoming general election, adding: "A new prime minister and leader of the party will carry its values and ideals into that next election."

       The Canadian leader has been facing calls to step aside since December when he faced a mini rebellion by 15 MPs over the resignation of Chrystia Freeland, the former deputy prime minister and Mr Trudeau's long-time ally.

       Ms Freeland’s resignation rocked Canadian politics, as the finance minister accused the prime minister of "political gimmicks" in the face of threats of tariffs by US President-elect Donald Trump.

       Last month, Mr Trump threatened to impose 25% tariffs on all imports from Canada and Mexico, accusing both countries of failing to stop illegal migration.

       The threat of hamstringing the Canadian economy comes with serious consequences, with Canadians facing rising house prices, a cost-of-living crisis, high unemployment and a faltering healthcare system.

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       Mr Trudeau took control of the party in 2013 and swept to power in 2015, leading his party to election victories in 2019 and 2021. His campaign focussed on progressive issues such as climate change and women’s reproductive rights.

       Opinion polls had suggested Mr Trudeau trailed his main rival, Pierre Poilievre, leader of the Conservatives, by 20 points.

       The government has faced severe criticism of its attempt to curb rising immigration, an issue many believe to be contributing to issues such as unemployment and rising house prices.

       Mr Trudeauwill remain as leader until a replacement is selected. The decision is likely to increase calls for a swift general election to allow the country to elect a stable government to work with the new Trump Administration in Washington.