For decades, Canada and the United States have shared a close alliance rooted in economic integration and mutual defense. But according to Canada’s prime minister, that era may now be officially over.
A Major Shift in North American Relations
Prime Minister Mark Carney stated on Thursday that the longstanding cooperative relationship between Canada and the U.S. “has ended,” following President Donald Trump’s announcement of new 25% tariffs on foreign-made automobiles—including those imported from Canada—starting April 2. “I reject any attempt to weaken Canada,” Carney declared at a press conference in Ottawa.
“The old relationship we had with the United States, based on deeper economic integration and close military and security cooperation, is over,” he added, as reported by Digi24.
Carney, recently elected leader of Canada’s Liberal Party and serving as interim prime minister, pledged that Ottawa would respond with targeted countermeasures. He promised retaliatory tariffs designed to “maximize impact in the United States and minimize it here at home.”
Carney Pushes Back on Trump’s Aggressive Posture
Carney revealed that Trump contacted him on Wednesday to arrange a phone call. “I welcome this opportunity to discuss how we can protect our workers and strengthen our economies,” Carney said. “I will make clear to the president that these interests are best served through cooperation and mutual respect—including respect for our sovereignty.”
Tensions have intensified in recent weeks, particularly after Trump publicly floated the idea of annexing Canada as the 51st U.S. state. The auto tariff announcement is part of a broader protectionist agenda that includes global steel and aluminum tariffs, a 20% blanket tariff on Chinese imports, and new levies on Canadian and Mexican goods—some of which were later partially delayed.
On Wednesday, Trump threatened even higher duties if Canada and the European Union coordinate economic retaliation. Posting on his Truth Social platform, he warned that both would be hit with “much higher tariffs” if they attempt to damage the U.S. economy.
Canada’s government, facing mounting pressure from workers and industry leaders, is expected to unveil its own trade response in the coming days.
