The next Trump on the threat of steep tariffs – which are supposed to have such a tactic of negotiations to obtain concessions on border security – confused Canadians who used close economic, social and safe ties with the US for decades.
“It’s a shock,” said BBC Michael Ignatius, a former leader of the Canadian Liberal Party.
“We are in the New World, in which the question of whether America can be trusted is the main issue in foreign policy for each country.”
Pierre Paylivre, leader of the Conservative opposition party, called the tariffs on Sunday “massive, unfair and unjustified.”
“Canada is the closest US neighbor, the greatest ally and best friend,” he said, noting that Canada fought with the US in the two world wars, as well as in Korea and Afghanistan. “No excuse for this treatment.”
The Prime Minister of Trudu questioned at his Saturday address why the US would be aimed at Canada, not to look for “more complex parts” of the world.
Part of his speech was directly addressed to the Americans, and he also pointed to the history of general bloodshed. “We fought and died near you,” said Trudu.
Thomas Dzhuno, Professor University Ottawa with a focus on national security, said the BBC that Trump’s tariffs are undoubtedly being an earthquake in Canada and the United States. “
“It is extremely destabilizing for Canada,” said Professor Junun. “As a country, we have been very benefiting to our extremely close trade and security for many decades.”
Although the trading battle is likely to force Canada to look for partners elsewhere, it will eventually not avoid geography, he said. It will remain depending on the economic superpower in the nearby door.
“That is why Canada must focus on the relationship as much as possible,” said Professor Junun.