Trump labels Canada 'worst' to deal with as trade war escalates

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday launched a scathing attack on Canada, branding the northern neighbor one of the "worst countries in the world to deal with" as bilateral trade tensions spiraled into a full-blown tariff war. Speaking to political commentator Glenn Beck, Trump accused Ottawa of exploiting the United States for decades while charging what he called "unbelievable" tariffs on American goods. He maintained that Canadian leaders treat the relationship as though their country were a US state, insisting that Washington no longer tolerates such behavior.

'Taken advantage' for decades

Trump highlighted a $60 billion annual trade deficit with Canada, saying that the US does not depend on its northern neighbor for critical resources. "They have taken advantage of the United States for many decades," he said, arguing that it is time to "teach Canada" that they can no longer "do this." While acknowledging that losing access to certain goods might create "a little inconvenient" disruption, he emphasized that Washington can secure alternative suppliers elsewhere.

Tit-for-tat tariffs escalate conflict

The verbal assault follows a definitive escalation in the bilateral trade war. On Aug. 22, the US implemented 50% tariffs on various Canadian goods, with an additional 50% levy on the automotive and steel sectors scheduled for Jan. 1. In response, Canada announced counter-tariffs ranging between 15% and 50% on CAN$27.6 billion ($20 billion) worth of US imports effective Sept. 8.

Collapsed negotiations

Trump suggested he had offered Ottawa a "pretty good deal" before recent talks broke down, though he did not specify the terms. The president's remarks signal a hardening of Washington's stance as both nations prepare to impose steep punitive measures on billions of dollars in bilateral trade.