March 5th 2025.
During a press conference on Tuesday, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau didn't hold back his thoughts on the recent American tariffs imposed on Canada. In a clear and direct manner, he called them "very dumb" and criticized US President Donald Trump for appeasing Russia while simultaneously starting a trade war with Canada, his closest ally and friend.
Trudeau went on to announce that Canada will be retaliating with tariffs on more than $100 billion worth of American goods. He expressed his frustration and anger at the situation, stating that it doesn't make sense for the US to launch a trade war against their closest partner while also trying to work positively with Russian President Vladimir Putin, whom he described as a "lying, murderous dictator."
Trump's decision to impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China has caused immediate retaliation from these countries and has also caused financial markets to plummet. Despite the backlash, Trump has proceeded with a 25% tax on Mexican and Canadian imports, with the exception of a 10% levy on Canadian energy.
Trudeau didn't hold back in his direct address to Trump, using his first name and even citing an opinion piece from the Wall Street Journal that called the tariffs a "very dumb thing to do." He also expressed his belief that Trump's ultimate goal is to see a collapse of the Canadian economy in order to annex the country, but assured that this will never happen as Canada will never become the 51st state.
In response to the tariffs, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated that a compromise may be reached soon, with an announcement expected on Wednesday. He also mentioned that the tariffs will not be paused but that Trump is open to finding a middle ground.
Trump himself took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to defend his decision and warn Trudeau that any retaliatory tariffs will result in a reciprocal increase in US tariffs. This threat has caused further anger and frustration in Canada, with many citizens feeling betrayed.
The situation has also caused tension in the sports world, with Canadian hockey fans booing the American national anthem at recent NHL and NBA games. Trudeau acknowledged the hurt and anger felt by Canadians and even announced that many citizens are choosing to boycott American products and vacations in Florida.
The premier of Ontario, Canada's most populous province, is also taking a stand against the tariffs. Doug Ford announced that he will be issuing a 25% export tax on electricity sold to the US and may even cut off the supply completely if the tariffs continue. Ontario is a major supplier of energy to states like Michigan, New York, and Minnesota. Ford also mentioned the possibility of stopping the sale of nickel and rare minerals to the US.
In addition, Ontario and other provinces have already started removing American liquor brands from government store shelves, with the Liquor Control Board of Ontario alone selling nearly $1 billion worth of American alcohol every year. The tension between the US and Canada continues to escalate, with no clear resolution in sight.
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