Trump accuses Trudeau of using tariffs to maintain power, expresses frustration over lack of progress on fentanyl prevention efforts
President Donald Trump discussed his phone call with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to address recently imposed tariffs in two posts made on his Truth Social platform on the afternoon of March 5.
During the call, Trump informed Trudeau that not enough has been done to stop the flow of fentanyl into the United States, accusing Trudeau of using the tariff issue as a means to maintain power.
Trump’s social media posts came after U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick’s comments earlier that day, hinting at changes in the tariffs policy.
Trudeau responded to the U.S. tariffs by announcing surtaxes on various U.S. goods, with further actions planned if the tariffs remain in place.
On March 4, Trump imposed tariffs on Canadian goods after a 30-day pause for assessment, leading to a back-and-forth between the two leaders regarding fentanyl, border security, and economic annexation allegations.
Despite the escalating tensions, both countries, according to Ottawa, have taken measures to combat the fentanyl issue and maintain economic stability.
Following Trudeau’s comments on annexation and Trump’s tariff threats, Lutnick dismissed Trudeau’s statements as he believes Trudeau’s days in office are numbered.
Aside from border and fentanyl-related issues, Canada faces the looming threat of additional tariffs on steel and aluminum, as well as broader trade actions scheduled for the coming weeks.
Trump and Lutnick also discussed the potential impact on the Canadian auto industry if car manufacturing were to return to the United States.
