VANCOUVER, British Columbia — The individual designated by the Canadian government to combat the influx of fentanyl into the United States has expressed his ambition to eradicating the drug from crossing the border entirely.
Kevin Brosseau, a former Royal Canadian Mounted Police officer and past national security and intelligence adviser, emphasized the critical nature of the fentanyl issue during a statement made on Wednesday. He asserted, “Our target should be to achieve a number of zero in terms of fentanyl trafficking. Even a small quantity, whether it is one pound or ten pounds, can lead to significant loss of life. We need to focus on wholly defeating the menace of fentanyl, both in Canada and in the United States.”
The Canadian government’s announcement of Brosseau’s appointment as the fentanyl czar came on Tuesday, partly in reaction to former President Donald Trump’s comments regarding the flow of fentanyl and illegal immigration from Canada, which he cited as justification for threatening to impose a 25% tariff on all Canadian goods, with a 10% exception for energy products.
As of now, the implementation of those tariffs has been put on hold until at least March 4. Brosseau indicated that this initiative reflects Canada’s commitment to address the fentanyl crisis and the importance of its partnership with American authorities. After visiting a Canada Border Services Agency facility in Lansdowne, Ontario, he stated, “This is a clear demonstration of how serious Canada is taking the fentanyl crisis in this country and how significant our relationship is with our American counterparts.”
Brosseau aims to enhance collaboration among various law enforcement agencies. “I intend to bring an increased focus to our efforts,” he noted. “My directive is explicit: to unite those involved, streamline operations, and achieve meaningful progress.”
Statistics from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reveal that last year, 19.5 kilograms (43 pounds) of fentanyl were confiscated at the northern border, while a staggering 9,570 kilograms (21,098 pounds) were seized at the southwestern border. Brosseau boasts over two decades of experience with the RCMP, having held roles as deputy commissioner and as the senior officer in Manitoba, along with a recent position as deputy national security and intelligence adviser to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
He is scheduled to confer with Tom Homan, Trump’s border czar, and other American officials in the near future. Brosseau commented, “My years in law enforcement have illustrated the significance of strong relationships and collaboration on the ground. Together, we can accomplish more.”
Alongside Brosseau’s appointment, the Canadian government revealed an investment of CDN$1.3 billion (US$91 million) aimed at bolstering border security, which includes enhancements in technology, personnel, and the acquisition of new helicopters.
During the same press event, Canada’s Public Safety Minister David McGuinty addressed concerns regarding the challenges posed by President Trump’s remarks. “Both Americans and Canadians have significant interests at stake,” McGuinty remarked. “We can navigate our way forward. I believe the administration is aware of this.”
He added that a composed and disciplined approach is essential for progress. In response to Trump’s repeated comments about Canada potentially becoming the 51st U.S. state, McGuinty firmly stated, “Canada is an independent and sovereign nation, and that remains unchanged. This is not open for negotiation.”
