Trump and Trudeau clash: New trade war sparks tension
Donald Trump reacted to an announcement by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who addressed the American president's decision to impose tariffs on Ottawa. Trump referred to him as "the governor" once again.
"Please explain to Governor Trudeau, of Canada, that when he puts on a Retaliatory Tariff on the U.S., our Reciprocal Tariff will immediately increase by a like amount!" Trump wrote on the Truth Social platform.
"The United States has declared a trade war on Canada"
On Monday, Donald Trump announced that tariffs on Canada would take effect at midnight. On Tuesday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded to the White House’s decision by stating that the United States had effectively declared a trade war on Canada.
"Today the United States has launched a trade war against Canada. It's closest partner and ally, its closest friend." At the same time, they speak of maintaining positive relations with Russia while following a policy of appeasement toward Vladimir Putin, whom Trudeau described as a deceptive and ruthless leader. He urged others to consider the implications of this approach.
He emphasized that Canadians are reasonable and polite, but they will not back down from their stance. The American tariffs will be challenged at the World Trade Organization. Canada is imposing a 25% tariff on U.S. exports totaling 115 billion U.S. dollars. Initially, these tariffs apply to goods worth 22 billion U.S. dollars, and after 21 days, they will apply to goods worth 93 billion U.S. dollars.
Trudeau announced that on Tuesday, he would meet with the premiers of Canadian provinces and territories to discuss further possible actions. He noted that the provincial and territorial governments might independently introduce additional non-tariff measures. He added that Canada aims to remove U.S. tariffs.
The Canadian Prime Minister stressed that a trade war has no winners. Speaking directly to Americans, he pointed out that Canada was not seeking tariffs, but their government had chosen to impose them. Trudeau warned of the consequences, including rising inflation and economic challenges that could put American families at risk.
Trudeau remarked to Canadians that "it will be tough," but the federal and provincial governments "will do everything" to support Canadians. "We will defend Canadian jobs," he added. "This country is worth fighting for," he emphasized.
