Ottawa (Rajeev Sharma): Outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has unleashed a fierce response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods, calling it a “trade war” that will boomerang on American households. Speaking Tuesday from Parliament Hill, Trudeau blasted the decision as “downright idiotic,” insisting that Canada—despite its courteous nature—will stand firm when its livelihood is threatened.
Trudeau lambasted Trump for attacking “the U.S.’s nearest ally and partner” while forging ties with Vladimir Putin, whom he called a “killer and tyrant.” In a swift counterstrike, Canada will slap 25% tariffs on $155 billion of U.S. imports—starting with $30 billion now and adding $125 billion in 21 days. He also announced plans to take the U.S. to the WTO, arguing that the tariffs violate long-standing trade agreements.
Addressing Americans, Trudeau predicted inflation and job cuts in U.S. sectors dependent on Canada, pressing Trump to rethink his strategy for the sake of “shared North American success.” He refuted Trump’s claim of Canadian inaction on fentanyl as “completely false” and accused him of plotting to destabilize Canada for annexation—a fantasy Trudeau vowed to thwart: “Canada won’t ever be America’s 51st state.”
Set to step down Sunday after nearly a decade leading the Liberal Party, Trudeau outlined relief for Canadians hit by the trade clash, from job-loss support to business aid. “We’re Canadians,” he affirmed. “We’ll battle this out and come out on top.”
