Trump, Trudeau discuss hockey, Ukraine and border security in recent call
President Donald Trump had a phone call with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Saturday, covering a range of topics from the war in Ukraine to U.S. border security. The call began with a discussion about the 4 Nations Face-Off hockey tournament, which Canada won. Both leaders expressed pride in their nations’ teams and the hard-fought championship.
The conversation then shifted to the upcoming G7 call, marking the third anniversary of the invasion and war in Ukraine. Trudeau echoed Trump’s desire for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, with Trump expressing regret that the war would not have started if he had been president at the time.
Border security was also on the agenda, with Trump imposing tariffs in response to drug trafficking at the U.S.-Canadian border. Trudeau claimed that Canada has significantly reduced fentanyl crossing into the U.S. and mentioned that Canada’s border czar would be meeting with U.S. border chief Tom Homan in Washington.
The relationship between Trump and Trudeau has been strained recently due to the tariffs and Trump’s interest in potentially annexing Canada as the 51st U.S. state. Trudeau dismissed this idea, highlighting Canada’s critical minerals and resources that the U.S. administration is keen on benefiting from.
Trump has been vocal about the trade deficit with Canada, arguing that the U.S. has no need for Canadian imports. He suggested that Canada becoming the 51st state would lead to lower taxes, better military protection, and no tariffs. Trudeau responded cheekily after Canada’s victory in the hockey tournament, asserting that the country and its game cannot be taken away.
The call between Trump and Trudeau touched on significant issues affecting both nations, showcasing the complexities of their relationship. The discussion highlighted the importance of diplomacy and cooperation in resolving disputes and promoting peace and security.
