Desk:US President Donald Trump has once again issued a sharp warning to Canada over its possible trade engagement with China. Targeting Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Trump said that if Ottawa moves ahead with any trade deal with Beijing, the United States will take a “very big step.” He made it clear that Washington does not want China to gain influence or control over Canada.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday, Trump expressed his displeasure over renewed speculation about a Canada–China trade agreement. “We don’t want China to take over Canada,” Trump said. He claimed that if Canada signs the kind of deal Chinese President Xi Jinping wants, Beijing would gradually dominate the country. In a sarcastic remark, Trump added that China’s “first move would be to get rid of ice hockey.”
“We will take a very big step”: Trump
According to a Reuters report, when Trump was asked how the US would respond if Canada goes ahead with a trade deal with China, he replied, “If they make a deal with China, yes, we will take a very big step.” Earlier, Trump had already warned of imposing 100 percent tariffs if Canada pursued such an agreement.
Has Canada softened its stand?
Following Trump’s warning, Canada appeared to tone down its position. Ottawa clarified that it is not moving forward with any new trade deal with China at this stage. Speaking to journalists in Ottawa, Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada has taken steps to address issues that emerged in trade relations with China over the past few years. He specifically mentioned concerns related to Chinese-made electric vehicles, agricultural products, and fishery exports.
Shifting global equations
Trump’s tough remarks on Canada come at a time when his administration appears relatively softer toward Iran. Trump said Tehran has been in constant touch with the US government, even as American military deployments continue to increase across the Middle East and the Arab region.
Meanwhile, since Trump returned to power, several European countries and NATO allies have been seen exploring alternatives to the US. In this context, leaders from Canada and later the UK visited China. During Mark Carney’s China visit in January, speculation grew about a possible trade agreement between the two countries. However, after Trump threatened 100 percent tariffs, Canada clarified that it would not proceed with any such deal.
Growing strain in US–Canada ties
Relations between the US and Canada have steadily deteriorated since Trump assumed office. During the early phase of his presidency, Canada was led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, whom Trump publicly referred to as a “governor.” Trump has also repeatedly described Canada as America’s “51st state.” These remarks have contributed to rising tensions and growing strain between the two long-time allies.