Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has dismissed US President-elect Donald Trump’s remarks about potentially annexing Canada as a distraction aimed at diverting attention from the economic consequences of proposed tariffs.
Trump announced plans to impose 25% tariffs on all Canadian imports unless Canada strengthens its border security. During comments on Tuesday, he suggested using economic measures to acquire Canada, sparking widespread criticism.
Speaking to CNN on Wednesday, Trudeau downplayed the annexation remarks, describing Trump as a “skillful negotiator” employing diversion tactics. “What I think is happening in this is President Trump, who is a very skillful negotiator, is getting people to be somewhat distracted by that conversation,” Trudeau said.
Trudeau emphasised the significant impact Trump’s tariff proposal could have on both nations, noting that key imports such as oil, gas, electricity, steel, aluminum, and lumber would become significantly more expensive for American consumers.
Despite the rhetoric, Trudeau maintained Canada’s firm stance, reiterating his earlier statement that there was “not a snowball’s chance in hell” of Canada becoming part of the United States. He warned that Ottawa would retaliate with countermeasures if Trump followed through on the tariff threat.
Trudeau pointed to the trade dispute in 2018 when Canada imposed retaliatory tariffs on a range of US goods, including Heinz ketchup, bourbon, Harley Davidson motorcycles, and playing cards. “These measures targeted products that would hurt American workers,” he said, adding that such actions are undesirable but necessary to protect Canadian interests.
While stressing the importance of Canada-US trade relations, Trudeau expressed hope for a resolution that would avoid further economic harm. “We don’t want to impose tariffs because it drives up prices for Canadians and harms our closest trading partner,” he concluded.
As the situation unfolds, Canada remains committed to safeguarding its sovereignty and economic stability amidst heightened tensions with its southern neighbour.
