In his very first moments as Canada’s new Prime Minister, Mark Carney wasted no time making a bold statement about his country’s independence.
Following Justin Trudeau’s exit, Carney immediately set the tone for his leadership by rejecting any idea of Canada becoming part of the United States, which he deemed a “crazy” suggestion.
Carney Defends Canada’s Sovereignty and Identity
Carney made it crystal clear that Canada would never consider merging with its southern neighbor.
At his first press conference, he firmly stated, “I’ve been clear, that we will never, ever, in any way, shape, or form, be part of the United States. America is not Canada.”
He emphasized the differences between the two nations, highlighting that Canada is “fundamentally” different and that Canadians are proud of their unique identity.
“We’re the masters in our home. We’re in charge,” Carney boldly declared, making it known that Canada’s sovereignty was non-negotiable.
Carney even pointed to the very ceremony he was attending, claiming it could never have taken place in the US, and the cabinet behind him was a symbol of Canadian leadership that could never be mirrored in America.
A Direct Message to Trump About Trade and Respect
While Carney acknowledged Trump’s business success, he made it clear that Canada’s economic relationship with the US deserved respect.
He reminded the US president that Canada is a significant economic partner, stating, “Canada is your largest client in so many industries.”
He explained that clients expect respect, and, just like any business relationship, the two countries should work together in a “proper commercial way.”
This comment came after Trump’s repeated threats to impose high tariffs on Canadian goods, which had already escalated tensions between the two countries.
Premier Doug Ford’s attempt to retaliate by threatening to cut off electricity to three US states also added fuel to the fire, though Ford eventually backed down after Trump delayed the tariff increase.
Carney’s Foreign Policy Shift and a Message to Trump
Carney, inheriting the ongoing trade war from Trudeau, made it clear that Canada would seek new opportunities for international cooperation to benefit its citizens.
He also made a pointed jab at Trump, stating, “That will reinforce the point. Eventually, the truth will out, and the Americans will understand as well.”
This comment was a subtle but strong reminder to Trump that Canada’s path forward would not be dictated by the US.
Carney Takes a Jibe at the Trump Administration’s Negativity
In another swipe at Trump and his administration, Carney embraced the stereotype of Canadians being kind, contrasting it with the negativity he associated with the US leadership.
“Canadians know that negativity isn’t strength,” he said, signaling a stark difference in leadership styles between the two nations.
Canada’s Support for Ukraine Amid Trump’s Controversies
While Carney’s remarks were aimed squarely at Trump, the situation between the US and Ukraine was also in the spotlight.
After Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to the White House, Trump’s administration faced criticism for its treatment of the leader, particularly after Vice President JD Vance’s outburst, questioning Zelensky, “Have you said thank you once?” to which Zelensky replied, “A lot of times.”
In response to the White House’s handling of the meeting, Trudeau expressed Canada’s unwavering support for Ukraine, pledging that Canada would continue to stand by the Ukrainian people in their pursuit of peace.
Carney’s leadership appears to carry on this commitment, reinforcing Canada’s role as a global force for good.