Donald Trump threatens ‘economic force’ to make Canada the 51st US state; Justin Trudeau reacts sharply

Trudeau rejects Trump’s proposal to make Canada the 51st  State amid tariff threats

US President-elect Donald Trump has reignited controversy by suggesting the use of “economic force” to integrate Canada as the 51st state of the United States. Trump’s comments, made during his first press conference since his election certification, also included threats to impose substantial tariffs on Canadian imports, drawing strong rebukes from Canadian leaders.

Trump’s proposal for Canada

During the press conference, Trump criticized Canada’s military spending, trade practices, and reliance on the United States, calling the US-Canada border an “artificially drawn line.” Trump said:
“You get rid of that artificially drawn line and take a look at what that looks like. It would also be much better for national security. Don’t forget, we basically protect Canada.”

Trump, who has long complained about Canada’s trade surplus with the US, claimed that the US subsidizes Canada to the tune of $200 billion annually. The US trade deficit with Canada was $40.6 billion in 2023, largely driven by energy exports, including millions of barrels of Canadian crude oil purchased by the US.

The president-elect also reiterated his plan to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian imports unless Canada curtails illegal drug and migrant flows across the border. He argued that such measures are necessary to protect American jobs and trade interests.

Canadian leaders respond

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau strongly rejected Trump’s suggestion, taking to social media to voice his opposition.

“There isn’t a snowball’s chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States,” Trudeau posted on X (formerly Twitter).

There isn’t a snowball’s chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States.

Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each other’s biggest trading and security partner.

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) January 7, 2025

He emphasized the mutual benefits of US-Canada trade and security partnerships, stating, “Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each other’s biggest trading and security partner.”

Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly also dismissed Trump’s remarks, stating:
“Trump’s comments show a complete lack of understanding of what makes Canada a strong country. Our economy is strong. Our people are strong. We will never back down in the face of threats.”

Economic and political tensions

Trump’s criticism extended beyond trade. He argued that Canada’s level of military funding was inadequate and claimed the US shouldered the burden of protecting its northern neighbor. During the press conference, Trump even suggested hockey legend Wayne Gretzky should run for Canadian prime minister.

Earlier in November, Trudeau had traveled to Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida to counter growing tariff threats. Canada responded by announcing a $1.3 billion package to strengthen border security. However, Trump indicated that these measures were insufficient, doubling down on his tariff threats.

Trudeau’s retirement announcement

Adding to the political turmoil, Trudeau announced on Monday that he would step down in the coming months, bowing to pressure from within his Liberal Party amid declining popularity. Canada’s next general election is scheduled for October, and polls predict a significant victory for the opposition Conservative Party.

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre also weighed in on Trump’s comments, affirming Canada’s independence:
“Canada will never be the 51st state. Period. We are a great and independent country.”

Conclusion

Trump’s remarks and looming tariff threats have strained US-Canada relations, sparking widespread condemnation from Canadian leaders. As Canada prepares for a leadership transition and an upcoming election, the future of its relationship with the United States under Trump’s presidency remains uncertain.

For all the latest updates, download PGurus App.

The post Donald Trump threatens ‘economic force’ to make Canada the 51st US state; Justin Trudeau reacts sharply appeared first on PGurus.