US-Canada relationship over strained ties, as PM Mark Carney declares the era of economic harmony with the U.S. officially ended. His remarks followed President Donald Trump’s announcement of sweeping new tariffs on car imports, including those from Canada.
“The old US-Canada relationship we had with the United States based on deepening integration of our economies and tight security and military cooperation is over,” Carney said.
Trump’s threats on Truth Social, including “large scale Tariffs” targeting Canada and the EU, triggered an emergency cabinet meeting in Ottawa. Carney later addressed the media, saying Canada must “dramatically reduce” reliance on the U.S. and seek deeper partnerships with Europe.
Carney, who took office less than two weeks ago, called the 25% tariff on vehicles and parts a “direct attack” on Canada, violating the USMCA trade agreement. He promised to retaliate forcefully and said he would unveil specific trade countermeasures after Trump announces more steps on April 2.
“We will respond forcefully. Nothing is off the table to defend our workers and our country,” Carney said.
He emphasized that Canada would not back down, stating:
“I reject any attempts to weaken Canada, to wear us down, to break us so that America can own us.”
The prime minister also confirmed potential future calls with President Trump but said there are no immediate plans to visit Washington. Instead, Carney plans to deepen alliances with France and the UK — calling them “long-standing and reliable.”
He warned Canadians to prepare for economic turbulence but affirmed the nation’s resilience:
“We are masters in our own home.”
As tensions grow, Canada stands on the brink of a major economic pivot, signaling a new era in its international strategy.
Source: CNN