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A top Canadian official has echoed claims from Prime Minister Trudeau, warning that President Trump’s 25% tariffs on Canada are not just about trade but a strategic move to economically weaken the country for potential annexation.
Some shit you should know before you read: Shortly after taking office, President Trump called for Canada to become the 51st state, arguing that the country is economically dependent on the US and fails to uphold its fair share of trade and security responsibilities. He has repeatedly claimed that Canada benefits disproportionately from trade agreements like NAFTA and USMCA while contributing little to joint efforts on border security, immigration control, and drug enforcement. Trump has also criticized Canada’s universal healthcare system, high taxes, and what he calls “weak leadership” under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, often referring to him as “Governor Trudeau.” His administration has further justified economic pressure on Canada by blaming it for fentanyl smuggling and claiming it serves as a pipeline for illegal migration into the US. Canadian officials argue these justifications are exaggerated or outright false.
What’s going on now: During multiple TV interviews, Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly warned that President Trump’s tariffs are part of a broader strategy to economically weaken Canada in preparation for potential annexation. She said, “This is not a joke anymore. We cannot let our guard down.” Joly also stressed that Canada must take Trump’s remarks about making the country the 51st US state seriously.
In response to escalating tensions, Joly urged Canadians to rethink travel to the US, warning that ongoing trade hostilities could lead to increased border disruptions and economic instability. She also said there was an immediate need for Canada to diversify its trade partnerships to reduce reliance on the US, pointing to Europe, the UK, and Asia as key alternatives. “Canadians are united. They’re united to defend our country, they’re united to defend our jobs, and, as I was saying, also our way of life. We’re not Americans. We’re very proud of our country,” she said.
Joly also accused the US of being disrespectful, stating, “We have been shown too much disrespect by the Trump administration at this point—calling us a 51st state, calling our prime minister ‘governor.’ We must make sure that we fight back.”
Her remarks echoed Prime Minister Trudeau, who warned that Trump’s true goal is Canada’s economic collapse.
