Trudeau says Trump is serious about Canada becoming 51st state: reports
President Donald Trump has been making waves with his suggestion that Canada should become the United States’ 51st state. While opinions are divided on whether Trump is serious or just trolling, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reportedly confirmed that Trump is serious about annexation during a closed-door meeting with Canadian business and labor leaders.
Trudeau was heard saying, “Mr. Trump has it in mind that the easiest way to do it is absorbing our country and it is a real thing.” He went on to suggest that Trump’s administration is aware of Canada’s abundant resources and wants to benefit from them. This suggestion comes after Trump’s initial proposal during a dinner at Mar-a-Lago with Trudeau in late November.
The U.S. president has long criticized Canada for not doing enough to prevent illegal migration and drug trafficking into the U.S. He has also claimed that the U.S. subsidizes Canada to the tune of $200 billion annually. In response, Trudeau has announced measures to reinforce the border and combat organized crime, fentanyl trafficking, and money laundering.
In addition to being a natural resource-rich nation, Canada is a founding NATO partner and a key trading partner of the U.S. The country is the top export destination for 36 U.S. states and provides the U.S. with approximately 60% of its crude oil imports.
While Trump has suggested that Canada joining the U.S. would result in lower taxes and better military protection, Trudeau has pushed back against the idea. He has emphasized Canada’s sovereignty and independence, stating that the country will not become the 51st state.
Despite the ongoing debate and tensions between the two leaders, it is clear that the relationship between the U.S. and Canada remains crucial for both countries. The future of this relationship will undoubtedly continue to be a topic of discussion and negotiation in the coming months.
