Toronto—In a pointed announcement on Tuesday, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s imposition of tariffs, describing them as senseless. Trudeau also accused Trump of engaging in a trade conflict with Canada while seemingly fostering amicable relations with Russia.
During a candid press conference, Trudeau revealed that Canada intends to impose counter-tariffs on American goods worth over $100 billion in retaliation to the recently announced 25% tariffs from the U.S.
“The United States has instigated a trade dispute with Canada, their closest ally and partner. Simultaneously, they are seeking cooperation with Russia, led by Vladimir Putin, who is a deceitful and violent leader. This is baffling,” an irate Trudeau shared.
The move by Trump to impose tariffs has disrupted the global market, leading to immediate retaliatory measures from Canada, Mexico, and China. Trump declared a 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada, although he adjusted the duty on Canadian energy imports to 10%.
Trudeau expressed concern about the potential economic consequences for Canada and accused Trump of attempting to undermine the Canadian economy, suggesting a ploy aimed at forcing a merger of territories.
“His aim seems to be the destabilization of Canada’s economy, possibly to facilitate an annexation. This will never occur. We refuse to become the 51st state,” Trudeau asserted.
The Prime Minister referred to Trump informally to emphasize his stance.
“Directly addressing Donald, although I seldom align with the Wall Street Journal, they do highlight that while you might be an intelligent person, this decision is extremely short-sighted,” Trudeau remarked.
On the same day, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick indicated a potential compromise between the U.S. and its trading partners Mexico and Canada, with an announcement expected soon.
Lutnick, speaking with Fox Business News, acknowledged that while the tariffs remain enforced, President Trump may propose a conciliatory deal.
“I believe he will propose an arrangement, meeting somewhere in the middle,” Lutnick speculated.
In a post earlier that day, Trump urged, “Governor Trudeau of Canada should understand that any retaliatory tariffs will be met by equally increased reciprocal tariffs from the U.S.!”
Trudeau’s sentiments have sparked nationalist sentiments across Canada, provoking public discontent. Many Canadian sports fans have been showing dissent by jeering the American national anthem at sports events. Trudeau echoed these national feelings of betrayal.
“Canadians feel wounded and infuriated. We will reconsider traveling to Florida for vacations,” Trudeau declared. “We’ll prioritize Canadian products… and likely continue jeering the U.S. anthem.”
The Premier of Ontario, the most densely populated province in Canada, announced his intention to implement a 25% tax on exported electricity to the U.S., potentially even halting the flow entirely if tariffs persist. Ontario provides power to millions of U.S. homes, spanning various states.
Doug Ford, Ontario’s Premier, also announced his intent to halt the sale of nickel and rare minerals to the United States.
Beyond these trade sanctions, provinces including Ontario have begun removing American liquor products from their government-regulated stores. The Liquor Control Board of Ontario, which accounts for approximately $687 million worth annually in American sourced alcoholic beverages, will be enforcing these changes.
