Stacy
Canada is stepping up efforts to reduce illegal migration and fentanyl trafficking in hopes of avoiding sweeping U.S. tariffs threatened by President Donald Trump. In an interview with a news channel, Canada’s ambassador to the United States, Kirsten Hillman, revealed that Trump’s advisers are “pleased” with Canada’s progress on these issues.
Trump has set a deadline of March 4 to impose 25% tariffs on almost all Canadian imports, expressing concerns over border security and the fentanyl crisis. In response, Canada has taken significant steps, including a $1.3-billion investment to strengthen the border and the appointment of Kevin Brosseau a former senior RCMP officer as the country’s fentanyl czar. Hillman noted that Canada has seen a 90% decrease in illegal migration to the U.S. in recent months, a major concern for the Trump administration.
Adding to trade tensions, Trump has also threatened 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, a move that would hit Canada, the U.S.’s largest supplier, particularly hard. While the tariffs are positioned to protect American industries, Canada sees them as an unfair economic burden.
Hillman explained that Trump’s negotiation strategy relies on using tariffs as leverage and even suggested that Canada should become the 51st U.S. state to gain trade advantages. However, she cautioned against responding with retaliatory measures, arguing that maintaining a pragmatic and diplomatic approach would serve Canada’s interests best.
Her stance contrasts with that of Chrystia Freeland, former deputy prime minister, and Liberal leadership contender, who has called for an aggressive response, including a $200-billion list of U.S. products that could face counter-tariffs.
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Olivia
Kathy
