Read Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s speech responding to Trump’s trade war
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau delivered a powerful speech on Parliament Hill announcing Canada’s response to the 25 per cent tariff that U.S. President Donald Trump is imposing on most Canadian goods. In his remarks, Trudeau made it clear that Canada will not back down from a fight when the country’s well-being is at stake.
Trudeau emphasized that the United States has launched a trade war against Canada, its closest partner and ally, while attempting to work positively with Russia. He called out the absurdity of appeasing Vladimir Putin, a lying and murderous dictator, while imposing tariffs on Canada, a long-standing friend.
In response to the U.S. tariffs, Canada will be implementing 25 per cent tariffs on $155 billion worth of American goods. Trudeau announced that tariffs on $30 billion worth of goods will take effect immediately, with tariffs on the remaining $125 billion of American products set to be implemented in 21 days.
Furthermore, Canada will be filing dispute resolution claims at the World Trade Organization and through the USMCA to challenge these illegal actions. Trudeau stated that Canadian tariffs will remain in place until the U.S. tariffs are withdrawn, and non-tariff measures are being considered in collaboration with provinces and territories.
Trudeau directly addressed the American people, expressing that Canada does not want this trade war and wants to work as a friend and ally. He highlighted the negative impacts the tariffs will have on American jobs, consumers, and national security, urging the U.S. government to reconsider its actions.
Regarding the allegations of Canada’s unwillingness to combat illegal fentanyl, Trudeau presented the facts, emphasizing Canada’s efforts to enhance border security and combat drug trafficking. He refuted the false claims made by the U.S. government and reiterated Canada’s commitment to working together to protect citizens from the scourge of fentanyl.
In closing, Trudeau assured Canadians that the federal government and other orders of government will be there to support workers and businesses during this challenging time. He emphasized the importance of standing together as a nation to defend Canadian jobs, prevent predatory behavior, and protect the economy from the impacts of the trade war.
Trudeau’s speech conveyed a message of resilience, solidarity, and determination in the face of adversity. As Canada faces the consequences of the U.S. tariffs, the government remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the country’s interests and supporting its citizens.
