Petulant Donald Trump has decided to halt all trade negotiations with Canada, citing his displeasure with television advertisements. The President expressed concerns that the ads displayed “egregious behavior” aimed at influencing US court decisions and opposing tariffs. Trade tensions between the US and Canada have been escalating, and Trump’s sudden decision to terminate negotiations is expected to exacerbate the situation.
Taking to Truth Social, Trump, 79, claimed that the Ronald Reagan Foundation revealed Canada’s fraudulent use of an advertisement featuring Ronald Reagan speaking negatively about tariffs, which he labeled as fake. Alleging interference with court decisions, Trump emphasized the importance of tariffs to national security and the economy, leading to the termination of all trade talks with Canada.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney previously expressed plans to increase exports to countries outside the US due to concerns over Trump’s tariffs. However, Carney’s office has not responded to requests for comments as the prime minister is attending a summit in Asia. Meanwhile, Trump is also scheduled for international engagements.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute recently criticized an ad created by the government of Ontario, stating it misrepresented Reagan’s remarks on free and fair trade. The foundation is exploring legal options in response to the unauthorized use of Reagan’s address.
Despite a recent meeting between Trump and Carney to ease trade tensions, the fallout from the ad controversy continues. With a significant portion of Canadian exports directed to the US, valued at nearly $3.6 billion Canadian daily, the trade relationship between the two countries remains crucial.
Trump, reacting to the televised ad from Canada, emphasized its impact and suggested that Canada should reciprocate with similar messaging. Ontario Premier Doug Ford also joined the conversation by launching an advertising campaign in the US against American tariffs, emphasizing collaboration for shared prosperity.