By Smartencylopedia Staff with Agencies
Trenton, Canada – Ontario Premier Doug Ford issued a stern warning on Wednesday following a high-stakes meeting with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and provincial premiers to address U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s threat of a 25% tariff on Canadian imports. Ford vowed to retaliate by cutting energy exports to key U.S. states if the tariffs are imposed.
“We will go to the extent of cutting off their energy,” Ford stated during a press conference after the 90-minute meeting. “Going down to Michigan, going down to New York State and over to Wisconsin.”
The move could disrupt significant energy trade flows, as Ontario supplies electricity and other energy products to multiple U.S. states, underscoring the severity of Canada’s response.
A Unified Canadian Front
While Ford’s remarks reflected a hardline stance, Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland and Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc struck a more measured tone. Freeland described plans for a “robust Canadian response” to the tariffs, indicating potential retaliatory measures in metals and critical minerals.
LeBlanc emphasized that the Canadian government is proactively addressing U.S. concerns about fentanyl and immigration, which Trump cited as reasons for the proposed tariff. “Only 0.6% of the fentanyl and 0.2% of the illegal immigrants enter the U.S. through Canada,” LeBlanc noted, adding that a detailed border security plan would soon be presented to Trump’s administration.
Economic and Diplomatic Impact
The tariffs, aimed at Canadian and Mexican imports, have raised fears of economic consequences on both sides of the border. Canadian officials emphasized that while the tariffs would hurt Canada, they would also lead to increased prices for American consumers.
To mitigate the potential fallout, Canadian provincial leaders plan to intensify engagement with U.S. governors and business leaders. These efforts aim to highlight the mutual benefits of cross-border trade and avoid a full-blown economic standoff.
What’s Next?
The situation remains fluid as Canadian officials finalize their response strategy. Trudeau’s government has signaled its commitment to protecting Canadian interests while navigating one of the first major challenges of Trump’s incoming administration.
This article is based on statements from Canadian officials and media reports.