Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau sharply criticized President Trump over the aggressive tariffs that went into effect on Tuesday, arguing that they harm Americans and would be met with retaliatory measures from Canada.
Relations between the two longtime allies have become increasingly strained, with Trudeau accusing Trump of initiating a trade war that will damage the economy of America’s closest partner. After much speculation, the U.S. formally implemented increased tariffs on imports from Canada, China, and Mexico, prompting China to immediately respond with its own retaliatory tariffs.
Canada countered with 25% tariffs on $30 billion worth of U.S. goods, with an additional $125 billion in tariffs set to take effect in three weeks, according to Trudeau. Speaking directly to American citizens, he placed the blame squarely on the Trump administration’s decision-making, emphasizing how the trade war would undermine the U.S. economy.
“Your government has chosen to do this to you,” Trudeau said, pointing to declining markets and the potential for rising inflation. He highlighted the risks to American jobs, particularly in industries that depend on Canadian materials or sell goods to Canadian consumers. “They have chosen to raise costs for American consumers on everyday necessities like groceries and gas, as well as on major purchases like cars and homes,” he added.
Trudeau also warned that U.S. national security would suffer due to the disruption of energy supplies, critical minerals, and key commodities that contribute to America’s economic stability. He dismissed Trump’s justification for the tariffs—that they were necessary to bolster border security and curb fentanyl trafficking—arguing that illegal crossings and drug flow between Canada and the U.S. are already extremely low.
Addressing Canadians, Trudeau acknowledged the economic difficulties ahead, saying, “I won’t sugarcoat it—this is going to be tough.” He also suggested that Trump wants to see a collapse of the Canadian economy, implying that the U.S. administration’s ultimate goal is to push Canada toward annexation as the 51st state.
Trudeau also took aim at Trump’s shift in diplomatic priorities, pointing out the contrast between his efforts to weaken ties with Canada while simultaneously strengthening relations with Russia. “They’re talking about working positively with Russia, appeasing Vladimir Putin—a lying, murderous dictator. Make that make sense,” Trudeau said.
As tensions escalate, the impact of tariffs on both economies is expected to intensify. Economists warn that prolonged trade restrictions could push both nations into an economic downturn, with higher consumer prices, slowed manufacturing, and reduced cross-border trade creating ripple effects that could trigger a recession on both sides of the border.