Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has strongly rebuffed former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent suggestion that Canada could become the 51st state of the United States. Trump had floated the idea during a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago residence, threatening to use “economic force” to pressure Canada into deeper integration with the U.S.

Trump’s Annexation and Tariff Threats

Trump’s remarks were made as he reiterated his belief that eliminating the border between the two countries would improve national security. “You get rid of that artificially drawn line, and you take a look at what that looks like, and it would also be much better for national security,” Trump said, adding, “Canada and the United States, that would really be something.”

Trump also threatened to impose substantial tariffs on Canadian goods unless Canada took action to enhance border security. He raised concerns about drug smuggling across the northern border, although U.S. data indicates that the amount of fentanyl seized at the U.S.-Canada border is significantly lower than at the southern border with Mexico.

Trudeau’s Firm Response

Trudeau did not mince words when responding to Trump’s suggestion, stating, “There isn’t a snowball’s chance in hell that Canada would ever consider becoming the 51st state.” Trudeau underscored the importance of Canada’s sovereignty and independence while reiterating the close trading relationship between the two nations.

On social media, Trudeau added: “Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each other’s biggest trading and security partner.”

Canada’s Political Landscape and Economic Concerns

The timing of Trump’s comments could not have been more politically sensitive for Canada. Trudeau had just announced his resignation, though he will remain in office until the governing Liberal Party elects a new leader in late March. Meanwhile, Canada’s parliament has been prorogued (suspended) until March 24 to allow for the leadership race.

Economists have warned that Trump’s proposed tariffs could have a significant impact on the Canadian economy. In 2023, almost CAD 3.6 billion ($2.5 billion) worth of goods and services crossed the U.S.-Canada border daily, according to Canadian government figures.

Trudeau’s government has stated that it is considering imposing counter-tariffs if Trump follows through on his threats. Ontario Premier Doug Ford and other provincial leaders have urged Trudeau to spend his remaining weeks in office working with provinces to address Trump’s tariff threats.

Ford emphasized the critical economic ties between Ontario and the U.S., particularly in the automotive industry. In 2023, trade between Ontario and the U.S. totaled more than CAD 493 billion ($350 billion). “My message is let’s work together, let’s build a stronger trade relationship—not weaken it,” Ford said.

Provinces and Premiers Take Action

British Columbia Premier David Eby announced that several Canadian provincial premiers plan to travel to Washington, D.C., to lobby against the proposed tariffs. Ford also pushed back against Trump’s “51st state” comments, quipping, “I’ll make him a counter-offer. How about if we buy Alaska and throw in Minneapolis and Minnesota at the same time?”

Ford also warned of potential retaliation if the Trump administration imposes tariffs, highlighting Ontario’s vital role in providing electricity to the U.S. “We keep the lights on for a million and a half homes and businesses in the U.S.,” Ford noted.

Military and Security Concerns

During his press conference, Trump also raised concerns about Canada’s military spending. “They have a very small military. They rely on our military. It’s all fine, but, you know, they got to pay for that. It’s very unfair,” Trump said.

Canada’s defense budget currently stands at CAD 27 billion ($19.8 billion), though the Trudeau government has committed to increasing it to nearly CAD 50 billion by 2030 to meet NATO spending targets.

What’s Next for U.S.-Canada Relations?

As Trump prepares for his next term in office, Canada faces mounting pressure to navigate its economic and political ties with the U.S. while maintaining its sovereignty. With provincial premiers stepping up to defend Canada’s interests, the nation is poised to push back on any further threats or remarks from its southern neighbor.

This ongoing situation highlights the importance of diplomatic negotiations and strong leadership as Canada and the U.S. work through economic and security challenges in the years ahead.