Maple flags, conspiracy theories and The Matrix: inside the Ottawa truckers’ protest

What began as a protest against vaccine requirements for truck drivers has grown into a widening movement as Trudeau refuses to engage with demands

• Ottawa protests: how did the rallies begin and what's next?

Diesel fumes and marijuana smoke filled the air outside of Canadian parliament as a Freedom Convoy" protest against vaccine mandates headed into a third week.

Columns of big-rig trucks, pickups and RVs have blockaded the heart of the Canadian capital since 28 January. Camped out in the vehicles are several hundred protesters - including many children - who have driven thousands of kilometres to be here.