Lemmy.World

Canadians are feeling an undeniable sense of betrayal after Trump declared a trade war against America’s northern neighbor and longtime ally. Trump keeps threatening Canada’s sovereignty and and vowing to put sweeping 25% tariffs on Canadian products, though Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday afternoon the tariffs will be postponed by at least 30 days after he promised more cooperation on the border.

In Canada, discussion and disapproval are everywhere. Canadian hockey fans have even been booing the American national anthem at recent National Hockey League games. Addressing the nation this past weekend, Trudeau channeled the betrayal that many Canadians are feeling, reminding Americans that Canadian troops fought alongside them in Afghanistan and helped respond to myriad crises from wildfires in California to Hurricane Katrina. “We were always there standing with you, grieving with you, the American people,” he said.

The Canadian jitters, some worry, could go beyond the moment. “The damage is going to be long-lasting,” said Robert Bothwell, a professor of Canadian history and international relations at the University of Toronto. “The Americans won’t be trusted anymore. The 51st state stuff is just contemptuous. It treats Canada like we don’t even exist.”

MBFC
Archive

Summary

Canadians feel betrayed after Trump launched a trade war, threatening 25% tariffs and even suggesting Canada become the 51st U.S. state.

Prime Minister Trudeau secured a 30-day tariff delay after pledging border cooperation, but tensions remain high.

Canadian officials announced retaliatory tariffs, while citizens boycott U.S. goods and boo the American anthem at sports events.

Experts warn the damage to U.S.-Canada relations could be long-lasting.