Trump Sparks Controversy, Says Canada Isn’t Sovereign 

U.S. President Donald Trump has stirred controversy by stating that Canada is not a sovereign nation, prompting reactions from political and diplomatic circles.

U.S. President Donald Trump has pledged to stop allowing Canada to “take advantage” of the United States, reiterating his desire for the neighboring nation to become America’s 51st state. During a conversation with reporters on Air Force One on Saturday, Trump claimed that Canada would not have survived without U.S. subsidies and business partnerships.

Earlier this month, in the lead-up to his inauguration, Trump made similar comments indicating that his administration might consider integrating Canada into the US. Ottawa has rejected these suggestions.

“Canada has been taking advantage of the U.S. for years, and we’re not going to let that continue,” Trump told reporters.

He stated, “Canada essentially wouldn’t exist without our support. They’re entirely dependent on us, so they should become a state.” Trump criticized Canada for what he described as unfair trade practices towards the U.S., asserting that America has been facing annual trade deficits of $250 billion with them. He also claimed that nearly 90% of Canada’s business is conducted with the United States.

He stated, “I could end that in just one day, and if I did, Canada would cease to exist as a country. I’m not willing to spend hundreds of millions supporting a nation unless it becomes a state.”

Trump believes that Canada would gain advantages by joining the United States.

He stated that if it were a state, Canadians would pay significantly lower taxes—potentially half of what they currently do. They would receive much better treatment and care, along with enjoying enhanced security in all aspects and being free from military concerns.

“I believe it’s a positive development for Canada… In my view, it really should be a state,” Trump said.

Earlier, Trump threatened to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian goods, asserting that this action would bolster the US economy. This week, he reiterated his intention, informing reporters of plans to implement these tariffs in February. In response, Canada’s outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned that Canada would enact retaliatory measures and cautioned that American consumers could face higher prices across various products. Earlier in the month, Trudeau also strongly dismissed the possibility of Canada becoming part of the US by stating there isn’t “a snowball’s chance in hell” it will happen.