OTTAWA– Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is anticipated to consult with President Donald Trump today as Canada’s leaders clamber to get ready for a profession battle with the United States.
Trump pointed out the prepared discussion after going back to Washington from Florida on Sunday evening and Trudeau’s workplace verified a phone call is arranged.
Speaking with press reporters at the Joint Base Andrews Sunday night, the Republican head of state claimed “Canada has actually been violent to the United States for years” as he described the trade relationship between the two countries as a ” one-way road.”
Meanwhile, Ontario Premier Doug Ford is expected to make multiple appearances on U.S. news programs to push Canada’s case.
Ottawa is imposing 25 per cent tariffs on $30 billion in goods originating in the U.S. — hitting hundreds of items, from meat and milk to carpets and curtains — in response to steep new American levies against Canada.
Trump signed executive orders Saturday evening to hit Canada with damaging duties of 10 per cent on energy and 25 per cent on everything else.
Canada’s initial tariff response takes effect Tuesday, when the American tariffs are applied.
In three weeks, Ottawa plans to add another $125 billion in tariffs on hundreds of other U.S. goods after consulting with industry.
Trudeau says additional non-tariff measures are being discussed by the federal and provincial governments, including some related to critical minerals, energy and procurement.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 3, 2025.
The Canadian Press
