President Donald Trump has escalated his feud with Canada in recent weeks, taking an aggressive stance on tariffs and even suggesting Canada’s removal from the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance, a move that could cut the country off from vital military intelligence. The relationship between the U.S. and Canada, long known for its close ties, has soured, especially after Trump’s threats to impose heavy tariffs on Canadian goods.
Historically, Canada and the U.S. have been allies, but Trump has put increasing pressure on Canada over issues like illegal drugs, particularly fentanyl, flowing across the border. He previously threatened a 25% tariff on Canadian imports unless Canada did more to combat the drug trade. While Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau promised to take action, including appointing a fentanyl czar and cracking down on Mexican cartels, Trump made it clear that his tariffs were still on the table. On February 17, Trump reaffirmed his intention to impose the tariffs as planned.
Canada’s economy, heavily reliant on trade with the U.S., could be hit hard by such tariffs. With 75% of Canada’s exports going to the U.S., these tariffs would lead to rising costs for American consumers. Canadian Trade Minister Mary Ng warned that tariffs would only drive up prices for Americans, making everyday goods more expensive, from groceries to gas. Nevertheless, Trump remains steadfast, claiming the tariffs are necessary to protect U.S. interests.
Adding fuel to the fire, Trump adviser Peter Navarro proposed expelling Canada from the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network, an alliance that also includes the U.K., Australia, and New Zealand. While this proposal has drawn concern from security experts, it reflects the growing tension in the bilateral relationship. The Five Eyes network is crucial for sharing military and intelligence information, and removing Canada would impact national security.
In his usual blunt style, Trump has also suggested that Canada should become the 51st state, an idea that has not been well-received in Canada. Polls show that most Canadians oppose the idea of joining the U.S., with some viewing it as an affront to their sovereignty. Trump, however, has continued to argue that Canada could benefit from joining the U.S., pointing to lower taxes and enhanced security.
These ongoing tensions have not only raised concerns among policymakers in both nations but have also left businesses on edge, unsure of how Trump’s rhetoric and actions will impact trade, supply chains, and diplomatic relations moving forward. The potential for a global trade war looms large as both sides prepare for what comes next.