President Trump reinforced his claim on Thursday that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is using the ongoing trade dispute between the U.S. and Canada as a political tool, just before announcing a temporary delay on tariffs affecting Mexico under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
“Believe it or not, despite the terrible job he’s done for Canada, I think that Justin Trudeau is using the Tariff problem, which he has largely caused, in order to run again for Prime Minister. So much fun to watch!” Trump posted on Truth Social.
Trudeau, who announced his intent to resign in January, spoke with Trump on Wednesday following the president’s decision to impose 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports. After their conversation, Trump claimed Trudeau was using the trade dispute to maintain political influence.
Shortly after criticizing Trudeau, Trump announced that tariffs on Mexican imports covered under the USMCA trade agreement would be postponed for approximately one month. He explained that he had spoken with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and was making an “accommodation … out of respect” for her.
Trump had already granted exemptions to North American automakers complying with USMCA regulations, and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick suggested that additional exemptions could be forthcoming.
Meanwhile, Trudeau stated earlier on Thursday that he believes the U.S. and Canada will be locked in a trade war for the foreseeable future, according to The Associated Press. The escalating tensions have drawn criticism from business leaders and trade experts who warn that the uncertainty could disrupt economic stability and raise prices for consumers on both sides of the border.