Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has firmly dismissed U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s recent suggestion that Canada should become the 51st state of America. In a strongly worded post on X (formerly Twitter), Trudeau wrote, “There isn’t a snowball’s chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States.”
Trudeau Defends Canadian Independence
Trudeau emphasised the mutual benefits of the strong trade and security partnership between Canada and the U.S., stating, “Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each other’s biggest trading and security partner.”
This response follows Trump’s repeated remarks referring to Justin Trudeau as the “Governor of the great state of Canada” and his assertion that economic measures could be used to integrate Canada into the U.S. Donald Trump clarified during a press conference that he had no plans to use military power but suggested “economic force” as a means to achieve his vision.
Tariff Threats and Economic Tensions
Trump’s comments also included a renewed threat to impose a 25% tariff on Canada, citing concerns about illegal immigration and fentanyl trafficking into the U.S. Despite a meeting between Trudeau and Trump in November at Mar-a-Lago, the tariff threats have persisted.
Canada’s Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly criticised Trump’s remarks, saying, “President-elect Trump’s comments show a complete lack of understanding of what makes Canada a strong country. Our economy is strong. Our people are strong. We will never back down in the face of threats.”
Political Reactions in Canada
Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre, widely expected to succeed Justin Trudeau as Prime Minister after the next federal elections, also weighed in, posting, “Canada will never be the 51st state. Period. We are a great and independent country.”
Trudeau’s firm response comes amid his announcement to step down as Prime Minister and Liberal Party leader after a leadership race to choose his successor. Details of the race are expected to be announced later this week.
Trump’s Continued Jibes
Despite the backlash, Trump appeared unfazed. Hours after Trudeau’s post, he shared an image on social media featuring the American flag superimposed on Canada with the caption, “Oh Canada,” a pun on the Canadian national anthem.
The incident unfolds during a turbulent time for the Trudeau government, which is grappling with internal challenges. Trudeau is set to attend a National Caucus meeting before heading to Washington for the state funeral of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter.
This latest exchange highlights the growing tensions between Canada and its southern neighbour as both countries prepare for significant political transitions.
