Canada’s Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly expressed confusion over U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to escalate a trade war with its closest allies, saying Ottawa has no clear understanding of what Trump hopes to achieve.
A Trade War with No Clear Goal
Speaking in Toronto, Joly confirmed that discussions about renewing the Canada-U.S.-Mexico free trade agreement (USMCA) have taken place, but Canada is struggling to grasp the motivation behind Trump’s aggressive approach.
"It’s not that we’re unwilling to discuss trade, but the problem is that the U.S. president’s aspirations are unclear," she said, as reported by Ukrinform.
She also pointed out that decision-making in Washington has become highly centralized, saying, "Only one person makes decisions now."
On Tuesday, Trump imposed a 25% tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico, escalating tensions between the three North American trade partners. In response, Canada announced mirror tariffs, setting the stage for a significant trade dispute.
Ontario, one of Canada’s largest economic engines, has threatened to cut electricity exports to the United States, a move that could affect 1.5 million American households.
Joly made it clear that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and President Trump will ultimately have to strike a deal themselves.
"This isn’t just about Canada—every country dealing with the U.S. now faces the same challenge," she added.
