Trump suggests EU allowing Canada as associate member could be a ‘hostile act’
- On Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026, President Donald Trump threatened to impose heavy tariffs or halt trade with the European Union if it grants Canada associate membership, warning the move could be a "hostile act."
- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposed the status during her State of the Union address in Strasbourg, France, arguing new partnerships are needed in "an openly hostile world."
- During a campaign stop in Charlotte, North Carolina, Trump dismissed the prospect as "laughable" and labeled Canada a "terrible trade partner," though he conditioned his retaliation on European leaders' "intention."
- Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney previously walked away from a "bad deal," leaving reciprocal tariffs of 15% to 50% on roughly $20 billion in goods already in effect."
- The administration's stance remains fluid pending further diplomatic interpretation, leaving stakeholders to account for the potential of broad trade restrictions as the European Commission advances its integration proposal.
30 Articles
30 Articles
Donald Trump threatens to cut trade with the EU if he decides to proceed with Canada as an associate member. "I would charge very heavy duties on products from Europe. (ANSA)
Donald Trump said he will respond with tariffs if Canada is an EU associate member by calling it a 'hostile act'.
Yesterday, United States President Donald Trump threatened to impose a very strict customs duty or to stop trade with the European Union, if the conglomerate in the proposal to grant Canada the first partner member.
Trump says Canada becoming an EU associate member could be ‘hostile act.’ Live updates here.
The latest escalation in the Canada-U.S. trade war comes as Mark Carney meets with foreign leaders in Europe while Pierre Poilievre criticized the prime minister. Follow for live updates.
Trump's warning was related to the annual policy speech given by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday.
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