In a 10-minute video address, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney warned that the country’s historically close economic relationship with the United States has shifted from an asset into a potential liability.
“The world is more dangerous and divided,” he said, adding that “the US has fundamentally changed its approach to trade, raising its tariffs to levels last seen during the Great Depression.” He cautioned that “many of our former strengths, based on our close ties to America, have become weaknesses. Weaknesses that we must correct.”
Carney pointed to recent U.S. measures against Canada, including tariffs on steel, cars and aluminum since President Donald Trump’s return to the White House for a second term. He also noted provocative rhetoric from Washington — at times even suggesting annexation of Canada — which has inflamed public opinion and played a role in the political dynamics that helped his party after trailing in polls.
Arguing that Canada cannot simply wait for the United States to “return to normal,” Carney said the country must diversify its economic relationships. “We have to take care of ourselves because we can’t rely on one foreign partner,” he said, noting that nearly 70% of Canadian exports currently head to the U.S.
Carney also highlighted that this year the trilateral U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade pact is due for review and that U.S. officials are reportedly seeking substantial changes. He cited recent criticism from U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who called Canada a difficult trading partner. Carney previously drew U.S. ire after denouncing the use of trade coercion by large countries at the World Economic Forum.
To reduce dependence on the U.S., Carney outlined plans to pursue new trade agreements, attract fresh foreign investment and increase defence spending. He promised regular updates to Canadians on the government’s progress, declaring: “It’s our country, it’s our future, we are taking back control.”
Report edited by Alex Berry.