Canada Condemns Trump's Unjustified Tariffs: Trade War Intensifies

Canada Condemns Trump's 'Unlawful' Tariffs as Trade Tensions Escalate OTTAWA, ON - June 4, 2025 - Prime Minister Justin Carney has denounced U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to double tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum imports, calling the move "unlawful and unjustified." The announcement, which came late Wednesday, has sent shockwaves through Canadian industries already struggling under existing tariffs. "These additional tariffs are not only harmful to Canada's steel and aluminum sectors, but they also undermine the spirit of good faith negotiations that we have been engaged in with the United States," Prime Minister Carney stated in an official press release. The 50% tariffs are set to take effect Thursday. In response to the escalating trade war, Canadian Trade Minister Dominic Leblanc and Ambassador Kirsten Hillman met with U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo in Washington, D.C. While details of the meeting remain undisclosed, Minister Leblanc expressed optimism that further dialogue would help resolve the situation. "Every time we have these conversations, I think we deepen our understanding of each other's positions," he stated to reporters outside the Department of Commerce building. The White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, confirmed the tariff increase, emphasizing President Trump's commitment to bolstering the American steel and aluminum industries. However, the move has been met with widespread criticism in Canada, raising concerns about job losses and economic repercussions. The Canadian government is currently exploring various options to mitigate the impact of these new tariffs and is committed to defending the interests of Canadian workers and businesses. The situation remains tense, with ongoing negotiations crucial for finding a resolution that benefits both countries.