Trump escalates tensions: US‑Canada trade war looms
Donald Trump reacted to the announcement by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who referred to the American president's decision to impose tariffs on Ottawa. Trump called him "the governor" once again.
"Explain to Governor Trudeau of Canada that if he imposes a retaliatory tariff on the USA, our reciprocal tariff will immediately rise by a similar amount!" Trump wrote on the Truth Social platform.
"The United States has declared a trade war on Canada"
Donald Trump announced on Monday that the tariffs on Canada would take effect at 5:00 a.m. GMT. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau commented on the White House's move on Tuesday, "The United States has declared a trade war on Canada."
"Today the United States has launched a trade war against Canada. Its closest partner and ally, its closest friend." At the same time, they speak of constructive engagement with Russia while adopting a policy of appeasement toward Vladimir Putin, whom Trudeau described as a deceptive and ruthless leader. He urged people to consider the implications of this approach.
He emphasised that Canadians are reasonable and polite but will not back down from their position. The American tariffs will be challenged at the World Trade Organization. Canada is imposing a 25% tariff on U.S. exports with a total value of approximately £95 billion. Initially, these tariffs on goods were worth about £18 billion, and after 21 days, they were worth around £77 billion.
Trudeau informed that on Tuesday, along with the premiers of Canadian provinces and territories, he would discuss further possible actions and noted that the provincial and territorial governments could independently introduce additional non-tariff measures. He added that Canada's goal is to remove U.S. tariffs.
The Canadian prime minister stressed that there are no winners in a trade war. Addressing Americans directly, he said that Canada did not want tariffs, "but your government decided to do this to you." Trudeau listed upcoming problems, such as higher inflation and economic issues threatening American families.
Trudeau acknowledged the challenges of addressing Canadians but assured that both federal and provincial governments are committed to providing support. He reaffirmed their dedication to protecting Canadian jobs and emphasized that the country is worth standing up for.
