Updated March 24th 2025, 09:17 IST
Toronto: Canada’s new Prime Minister, Mark Carney, who took over after Justin Trudeau's exit, issued a stern message to the US during their election campaigns.
The new leader also called for a snap election in the country on April 28, saying it is necessary for Canada to secure a stronger mandate against the backdrop of Trump’s constant threats.
Referring to these threats, Carney stated that Trump must respect Canada’s sovereignty.
Carney said US President Trump’s trade actions are unjustified and pose a major threat to Canada.
“We are facing the most significant crisis of our lifetimes because of President Trump’s unjustified trade actions and his threats to our sovereignty,” Carney said.
He further claimed that Trump has dismissed Canada as a legitimate country and aims to break it apart for US control.
“President Trump claims that Canada isn’t a real country. He wants to break us so America can own us. We will not let that happen,” he added.
Trump has repeatedly suggested that Canada should become the 51st US state amid growing political tensions.
“They want our resources. They want our water. They want our land. They want our country. Never,” Carney declared at a rally in Newfoundland.
The new leader further stated that Canadians have two choices—a “Canadian Trump” or a government that unites the country.
“Canadians are always ready when someone else drops the gloves,” Carney said, using a hockey reference. “In this trade war, just like in hockey, we will win.”
Explaining why Canada needs an election earlier than the scheduled date of October 20, Carney said, “There is so much more to do to secure Canada—to invest in Canada, to build Canada, to unite Canada. That’s why I’m asking for a strong, positive mandate from my fellow Canadians. I’ve just requested that the Governor General dissolve Parliament and call an election for April 28, and she has agreed.”
Carney, who replaced Justin Trudeau, took office on March 15. Meanwhile, Trump recently announced 25% tariffs on Canada’s steel and aluminum and is threatening staggering tariffs on all Canadian products starting April 2.
Published March 24th 2025, 09:15 IST