Donald Trump warns Canada: Join as the 51st State or face ‘Economic Force’ – Key takeaways
US President-elect Donald Trump has proposed using “economic force” to pressure Canada into becoming the 51st state. Speaking from his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Trump cited trade deficits and US military assistance as key concerns. He warned of “substantial” tariffs on Canadian goods, emphasizing that the US could no longer subsidize its northern neighbor.
Trump accused Canada of exploiting the US in trade. He claimed the US protects Canada while losing billions in trade deficits. “We protect Canada and spend hundreds of billions doing it. Meanwhile, we lose in trade—cars, milk, everything,” he said. Trump argued that the US could do without Canadian products if necessary.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau rejected Trump’s suggestion outright. Posting on X, Trudeau stated, “There isn’t a snowball’s chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States.”
Trump refused to rule out military actions to secure US control over key regions like Greenland or the Panama Canal. He stressed the importance of these areas for US economic security, adding, “We need them.” However, he avoided committing to specific actions.
Trump also criticized Mexico, accusing it of exploiting US trade and failing to address cartel violence. He pointed to the massive trade deficit with Mexico and described the country as “a very dangerous place.” Trump promised significant changes, saying, “We’ll set a date soon and make it clear—we do most of the work, so it’s ours.”
Trump has vowed to take a tougher stance against Canada and Mexico if elected for a second term. He plans to impose new tariffs and demand stronger efforts to curb illegal drugs and migrant flows across US borders.
Trump’s remarks have heightened tensions with both neighbors, signaling a more aggressive foreign policy approach in his potential second term.
