Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is set to speak with U.S. President Donald Trump today as Canada braces for a rapidly intensifying trade dispute with its southern neighbor. The call comes amid heightened tensions following the announcement of sweeping tariffs imposed by both countries, signaling a potential full-scale trade war.
President Trump confirmed the planned conversation upon his return to Washington from Florida on Sunday night, with Trudeau’s office later confirming the call is scheduled to take place. The discussions are expected to focus on the escalating economic conflict sparked by new U.S. tariffs and Canada’s retaliatory measures.
In response to Trump’s executive order imposing a 25 percent tariff on all Canadian goods—except for energy, which will face a 10 percent tariff—Ottawa has swiftly retaliated with countermeasures of its own. Beginning Tuesday, Canada will impose a 25 percent tariff on $30 billion worth of U.S. imports, targeting a wide range of products including meat, dairy, carpets, and curtains.
The Canadian government has also announced plans to introduce an additional $125 billion in tariffs on hundreds of other U.S. goods in the coming weeks, following further industry consultations. Trudeau has signaled that his administration is exploring additional non-tariff measures, with a particular focus on critical minerals, energy, and procurement policies aimed at protecting Canada’s economic interests.
Meanwhile, Ontario Premier Doug Ford is taking a proactive stance by appearing on multiple U.S. news programs to advocate for Canada’s position and push back against Trump’s punitive trade policies. Ford’s appearances are expected to emphasize the mutually damaging consequences of the escalating tariff war and highlight the importance of maintaining stable trade relations between the two countries.
With tensions rising and significant economic consequences looming, today’s conversation between Trudeau and Trump will be a pivotal moment in determining the trajectory of Canada-U.S. trade relations in the weeks ahead.