Canada pivots to Europe as US trade rift deepens

Canada is increasingly turning to Europe for closer economic and strategic ties amid its most severe trade rift with the United States in decades. Prime Minister Mark Carney has intensified contacts with European leaders to explore deeper connections with the EU. Ottawa is considering an "association agreement" with the EU to expand cooperation in energy, artificial intelligence, critical minerals, and defense. Carney has communicated with leaders in France, Germany, and Italy, while officials discuss reducing US dependence in technology and military equipment. Canada seeks to boost energy links, including sending natural gas to European markets, and diversify defense procurement. However, about two-thirds of Canadian exports go to the US, making diversification difficult, and some European governments remain cautious about straining Washington ties.