US President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the media after their first official meeting at the White House, where they struck a largely positive tone but did not shy away from clear differences.
Praise and Personal Warmth
Carney opened his remarks by calling Trump a “transformational leader,” pointing to the global impact of his presidency. Trump, in return, described Carney’s recent election victory as “one of the greatest comebacks in the history of politics,” crediting the Canadian leader for reviving his party’s prospects.
The two leaders emphasized mutual respect despite weeks of diplomatic tension over tariffs and Trump’s controversial remarks about absorbing Canada into the United States.
Tension Over Sovereignty
Trump once again floated the idea that Canada could be better off as a US state. This notion was quickly dismissed by Carney, who responded firmly that “Canada is not for sale.” The Canadian leader emphasized the importance of maintaining national identity and sovereignty in the face of growing pressure.
Trade Talks on the Table
Both Trump and Carney agreed that a free trade agreement involving the US, Canada, and Mexico benefits all three nations. However, Trump hinted that “adjustments” would be necessary, signaling potential changes in the upcoming renegotiation talks. Carney noted that Canada would participate in the process but stressed that any deal must protect Canadian interests.
Surprise Announcement on Yemen
In an unexpected turn, Trump announced that the United States has reached a deal with Yemen’s Houthi rebels. Under the agreement, the US will halt its bombing campaign in Yemen, while the Houthis are expected to stop their attacks on international shipping lanes in the Red Sea.
While Trump framed the deal as a diplomatic success, he admitted that the Houthis had not yet publicly confirmed the arrangement.
Final Thoughts
The press conference offered a mix of cooperation and confrontation, reflecting the complex relationship between the neighboring countries. While the leaders showed signs of working together on trade and international peace, underlying tensions around national identity and past rhetoric remained evident.
