Carney Pushes Back on Trump Over Tariffs, Rejects Annexation Talk

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Tuesday, firmly rejecting the idea of Canada ever becoming the "51st state." Carney, elected on April 28 on a promise to oppose U.S. tariffs and safeguard sovereignty, bluntly told Trump, “Canada is not for sale—ever.”

Despite past tensions, both leaders described the meeting as constructive. Trump called it “great,” adding, “I think the relationship is going to be very strong.” Carney acknowledged progress was made, especially in launching talks for a new economic and security partnership.

The visit aimed to reset strained bilateral ties following Trump’s steep tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminum, and autos. Though Carney requested the U.S. lift tariffs and stop referring to Canada as a future U.S. state, Trump was non-committal, stating, “The president will say what he wants.”

Canada is the U.S.’ second-largest trading partner, with over $760 billion in goods exchanged in 2024. Trump criticized this relationship again ahead of the meeting, posting on Truth Social that the U.S. doesn’t need Canada’s cars, energy, or lumber—“just their friendship.”

Carney’s push for a revised trade deal comes as the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) nears its 2026 review. While Trump called the agreement “fine,” Carney noted some terms may require updates.

Markets responded positively to Carney’s visit, with the Canadian dollar hitting a seven-month high. A Canadian official rated the summit a “10 out of 10,” reflecting the relief in Ottawa that talks remained civil—unlike February’s contentious meeting with Ukraine’s Zelenskiy.

Though tariffs remain unresolved, both sides agreed to continue dialogue at the ministerial level and meet again at the G7 summit in June.