Canada's trade fight with the US becomes a defense of national sovereignty

Canada's trade dispute with the US has evolved into a defense of national sovereignty, uniting Canadians against President Trump's annexation threats and tariff policies. Prime Minister Mark Carney has emerged as a defiant leader, walking away from negotiations and pledging retaliatory tariffs. Canada's finance minister announced tit-for-tat tariffs on key American industries after talks collapsed, with Carney accusing the US of using "economic integration as a weapon." Polling shows strong majority support for Carney's stance across all provinces, with national unity at unprecedented levels. The dispute began in February 2025 when Trump imposed 25% tariffs on Canadian imports. Canada has since strengthened trade ties with China and the EU, while grassroots boycotts of US goods have emerged, with Canadian visitor numbers falling 26% in 2025.