Trump agrees to pause Canadian tariffs, Trudeau says

President Donald Trump has decided to pause additional tariffs on Canadian imports for 30 days after a productive call with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The call, which took place on Monday, came just hours before additional 25% tariffs were set to be imposed on Canadian goods entering the United States.

In a statement following the call, Trudeau announced that Canada would be implementing a $1.3 billion border plan and appointing a fentanyl czar to address the ongoing issues. As part of the plan, Canada will strengthen its border security with the addition of new helicopters, technology, personnel, and enhanced coordination with American authorities. Trudeau noted that nearly 10,000 personnel are currently working on border protection efforts.

“We will list cartels as terrorists, ensure 24/7 surveillance on the border, and launch a Canada-U.S. Joint Strike Force to combat organized crime, fentanyl, and money laundering,” Trudeau stated. “I have also signed a new intelligence directive on organized crime and fentanyl, backed by $200 million in funding.”

The proposed tariffs will be put on hold for at least 30 days as both countries work together to address the issues at hand. Trump has long been critical of Canada and Mexico for not doing enough to prevent the flow of illegal migrants and drugs, particularly fentanyl, into the U.S. He has also accused Canada of receiving $200 million in annual subsidies from the U.S.

In a statement released on Saturday when he initially imposed the tariffs, Trump emphasized his commitment to protecting Americans and securing the borders. He stated that he had made a promise during his campaign to stop the influx of illegal aliens and drugs into the country, and that it was his duty as President to fulfill that promise.

Prior to his call with Trudeau, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced plans to deploy 10,000 troops to the U.S.-Mexico border in response to tariff threats. Trump had also threatened to impose a 25% tariff on all Canadian and Mexican goods, as well as a 10% tariff on Canadian energy and all goods coming from China. The tariffs on Canada and China were initially set to go into effect at midnight on Tuesday.

The tensions between the U.S. and its neighboring countries have prompted leaders in several Canadian provinces to pledge to remove American alcohol from store shelves in response to the threats. The situation remains fluid as both countries work towards a resolution to the issues at hand.