The 47th president of the US, Donald Trump, has taken to social media to propose a surprising solution for Canada to avoid paying “much lower taxes” and evade tariffs.
On February 1, Trump signed an order imposing significant tariffs on goods imported from Canada, Mexico, and China, citing the need to hold these countries accountable for their promises to halt the influx of poisonous drugs into the US.
What’s Behind the Tariffs?
The tariffs, which come into effect on February 4, include a 25 percent tax on goods from Canada and Mexico, and a 10 percent tax on goods from China.
Trump declared a national emergency under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to back this move.
The White House claims that the tariffs are necessary to hold Mexico, Canada, and China accountable for their promises to stop illegal immigration and the flow of poisonous fentanyl and other drugs into the US.
Canada Fights Back
Canada has responded to the order by announcing plans to impose a 25 percent counter-tariff on CA $155 billion of US goods.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned that the White House’s actions will have “real consequences” for the American people and will ultimately cause a “split” rather than bringing the countries together.
Trump’s Unconventional Solution
In a post on Truth Social, Trump suggested that Canada could avoid the tariffs by becoming the 51st state of the US.
He wrote: “We pay hundreds of Billions of Dollars to SUBSIDIZE Canada. Why? There is no reason.
We don’t need anything they have… Without this massive subsidy, Canada ceases to exist as a viable Country.
Harsh but true! Therefore, Canada should become our Cherished 51st State. Much lower taxes, and far better military protection for the people of Canada — AND NO TARIFFS!”
Mexico Weighs In
Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, has also spoken out against the White House’s announcement, stating that the country “categorically rejects” the claim that the Mexican government has alliances with criminal organizations. Sheinbaum emphasized that Mexico will always defend the dignity of its people, respect its sovereignty, and engage in dialogue as equals.
What’s Next?
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Canada and Mexico will respond to Trump’s suggestions and the tariffs.
One thing is certain, however: the relations between the US, Canada, and Mexico are about to get a lot more complicated. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story!
