nuSep 17, 2026, 05:53

Trump threatens to halt trade with EU over relationship with Canada

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed making Canada an associate member of the EU to deepen ties in trade and defense. Donald Trump has threatened to retaliate with severe import tariffs or a full trade blockade, viewing the move as a hostile act against the United States.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed making Canada the first associate member of the European Union to strengthen cooperation in trade and defense. This initiative is being pursued by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney as Canada faces a deteriorating trade relationship and political tension with the United States. The proposal aims to secure new partnerships for Canada as its reliance on the American market faces significant instability.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has strongly condemned the plan, labeling it a hostile act. He warned that if the European Union proceeds with integrating Canada as an associate member, he would respond by imposing severe import tariffs or halting trade entirely with Europe. In response, an European Commission spokesperson clarified that the partnership with Canada is not intended to target any other nation but is instead a strategic move to bolster collective strength. The proposal currently remains in the early stages and requires formal approval from all EU member states to move forward.

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Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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