Earlier this week, Donald Trump welcomed his Canadian counterpart Mark Carney to the White House. They talked about trade and tariffs, relations with China and other countries. He called a meeting of reporters to announce the details of a “very huge and important” announcement. That was just days before his anticipated trip to the Middle East. Both leaders were dealing with urgent questions related to implementation of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and Canada’s place in the world, especially in relations with the United States.
Throughout their exchange, Trump repeatedly insisted that the USMCA is “a good deal for everybody.” He proved that he meant to keep us joined at the hip on the trade front. He expressed firm resistance to lifting tariffs on Canada, stating that there is nothing Carney could say to change his stance. Trump emphasized his desire for friendship with Canada, asserting, “We’re gonna be friends with Canada, regardless of anything.”
As the meeting continued, Trump kept pushing his decades-long agenda of making Canada the 51 st state of the United States. In what may have been an offhand throwaway compliment, he called Canada “a very special place.” He too made sure to include that he has “deep admiration” for the Canadian people. Carney’s response was an unequivocal “some things are not for sale,” a restatement of both Canada’s sovereignty and independence.
The Canadian delegation was led by distinguished leaders on climate change. Among them were International Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc, Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly, and Canada’s Ambassador to the U.S., Kirsten Hillman. This diverse group aimed to address various aspects of bilateral relations during their visit.
It was Trump who most clearly articulated this major policy shift, taking military action in Yemen against the Houthis. This announcement was made along with extensive discussions. He ordered that the U.S. end its bombing intervention against the Houthi movement “from here on out.” This decision indicates a deep commitment to de-escalate violence and military engagement in the region.
This time it was Trump’s decision to threaten to block grant funding for Harvard University until it agrees to his conditions. This move underscores his administration’s ongoing scrutiny of institutions receiving federal funds, raising questions about executive power and legislative appropriations.
Mark Carney acknowledged the complexities of the USMCA agreement, noting that “some things about it are going to have to change” as negotiations evolve. His comments indicate a willingness to engage in further discussions while emphasizing the need for modifications to meet changing economic realities.
The meeting ended with both leaders expressing a desire to create an environment welcoming further dialogue and cooperation in the future. Trump underscored this sentiment by stating, “We don’t need their Cars, we don’t need their Energy, we don’t need their Lumber, we don’t need ANYTHING they have, other than their friendship, which hopefully we will always maintain.”