On Tuesday, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that Donald Trump’s goal is to “cause the collapse of the Canadian economy” to make the process of annexing Canada “easier.”
In a press conference held hours after U.S. tariffs on Canadian products came into effect, Trudeau said, “This is what the U.S. President wants.”
He added that in this context, “I don’t know what negotiations could be started,” noting that the justification used by Trump for imposing the tariffs—based on fentanyl—”is completely unjustifiable.”
Trudeau remarked that “it will be difficult and will have a severe impact on Canada,” but the country “will not back down,” vowing that Canada would prevail against the “stupid” decision made by Donald Trump.
Canada will be filing a complaint against the U.S. decision with the World Trade Organization.
Trudeau said that Canada will impose a 25% tariff on U.S. imports worth 30 billion Canadian dollars starting today.
Addressing Americans, Trudeau reiterated that this “trade war” was the result of Washington’s desire alone. He stated, “We want to work with you as friends and allies, and we don’t want to see you suffer, but your government chose to impose this on you.”
He added, “Since this morning, financial markets have been declining, and inflation will rise significantly across your country,” further stating that he is ready to speak to Donald Trump swiftly.
Trudeau confirmed that his goal remains to have the U.S. tariffs “removed as soon as possible.”
