Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announces separation from wife Sophie

The pair share three children. Credit: AP

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced that he and his wife of 18 years, Sophie, are separating.

The 51-year-old wrote on his Instagram on Wednesday: "Hi everyone. Sophie and I would like to share the fact that after many meaningful and difficult conversations, we have made the decision to separate.

Firefighter killed as Canada battles extensive wildfires
Justin Trudeau via Instagram. Credit: Instagram

"As always, we remain a close family with deep love and respect for each other and for everything we have built and will continue to build.

"For the well-being of our children, we ask that you respect our and their privacy. Thank you."

Sophie and Justin Trudeau at the Queen's funeral in September. Credit: AP

Trudeau first met Sophie Grégoire when they were both children growing up in Montreal.

They married in 2005 and have three children together, Xavier, Ella-Grace, and Hadrien.

Canada to put health warnings on individual cigarettes in world first

Want a quick, expert briefing on the biggest stories of the day? Here's What You Need To Know...