U.S. President Donald Trump has warned the European Union that it could face “very serious tariffs” or trade restrictions if Brussels moves forward with a proposal to bring Canada closer as an “associate member.”
Relations between Canada and the United States have deteriorated in recent months, while Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has called for stronger ties with the European Union.
Last week, Carney said Canada was seeking a “unique alliance” with Brussels.
Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in her State of the Union address that she wanted to work toward “opening the door” to Canada, including closer ties in several key sectors.
Speaking to reporters, Trump warned that such closer relations could trigger a response from the United States.
“If they do that, if I think it’s a hostile act, I’ll put very serious tariffs on them, or I’ll stop trade with Europe on a lot of things,” Trump said.
He added that the U.S. response would depend on the EU’s intentions.
“And if they do that, if Europe does that with a bad intent, if it’s good intent, that’s fine. If it’s bad intent, we’ll put very heavy tariffs on Europe,” the U.S. president said.
Meanwhile, Carney is expected to address the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, where he is attending the plenary session as an honorary guest.
