The U.S. president accused Canada of 'fraudulent behaviour' and announced the suspension of trade talks between the two countries. His response came shortly after a televised ad aired in Ontario, featuring excerpts from former U.S. President Ronald Reagan's 1987 speech warning against protectionism.
The advertisement, which was released by Ontario Premier Doug Ford's office, appeared during major sports broadcasts and urged closer economic cooperation between Canada and the United States. However, President Trump claimed the ad misrepresented Reagan's message and described it as an attempt to 'interfere' with U.S. trade policy.
Premier Ford defended the campaign, saying the intention was to highlight the long-standing friendship between the two nations. 'Canada and the United States are friends, neighbours and allies. President Ronald Reagan knew that we are stronger together,' Ford said after sharing the full, unedited version of the former president's speech on social media.
While Canada's federal government did not produce the ad, Washington's reaction has already heightened tensions. The new tariffs, reported to affect up to 35 percent of Canadian goods, add fresh pressure to bilateral trade, which had already been strained by existing restrictions. Canada has also hinted at retaliatory measures if the duties remain in place.
Observers say the dispute underscores how political messaging can trigger real economic consequences. Despite the two nations' long partnership, the latest tensions mark a new challenge in North American relations, with potential effects on key industries and cross-border trade.
Rania Umutoni
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/trump-vows-new-tariffs-on-canada-after-political-ad-sparks-outrage
