ALBAWABA- Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney declared an end to the era of deep economic and military cooperation between Canada and the United States, following President Donald Trump’s decision to impose steep auto tariffs.
“The old relationship we had with the United States, based on deepening integration of our economies and tight security and military cooperation, is over,” Carney stated in Ottawa on Thursday.
Carney emphasized that Canada did not initiate the tariff battle but vowed to fight back with full force. He indicated that Canada may impose counter-tariffs on key U.S. sectors, including pharmaceuticals, lumber, and semiconductors, to protect its economic independence.
The Prime Minister also confirmed that the White House had reached out to schedule a call with President Trump, which he expects to take place within the next two days.
Trump has repeatedly claimed that Canada should be considered the "51st state" of the U.S. and has justified the 25% tariff imposition by accusing Canada of unfairly profiting off the U.S. economy.
His aggressive trade policies, coupled with the suggestion of annexation, have fueled tensions between the two nations, raising alarm in Canada and beyond.