Donald Trump has reignited calls for a merger between the United States and Canada following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s resignation announcement on Monday.
Trump, set to begin his second term this month, claimed such a union would bring significant benefits to both nations.
“If Canada merged with the US, there would be no tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be totally secure from the threat of the Russian and Chinese ships that are constantly surrounding them. Together, what a great Nation it would be!!!” he posted on social media.
Trudeau Steps Down Amid Political Struggles
Trudeau, 53, announced his intent to resign after nearly a decade in power, citing internal divisions and declining support within his ruling Liberal Party.
“I intend to resign as party leader, as Prime Minister, after the party selects its next leader,” Trudeau stated in Ottawa. He emphasized that the leadership race would be “a robust, nationwide competitive process.”
While the timeline for his departure remains uncertain, Trudeau will continue as caretaker prime minister, managing Canada’s response to Trump’s administration during his final days in office.
Rising Trade Tensions
Trump’s latest proposal for a US-Canada merger comes amid rising economic tensions. The incoming president has threatened a 25% tariff on Canadian imports, a move Trudeau previously described as “devastating” to Canada’s economy. Trudeau had vowed to retaliate against such measures, raising concerns of a full-scale trade conflict.
Trump’s suggestion also highlights security concerns, as he claimed the merger would protect Canada from perceived threats posed by Russian and Chinese naval activity.
Trudeau’s Legacy and Challenges Ahead
Trudeau, the son of former Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau, led Canada’s Liberal Party to three electoral victories since taking over as leader in 2013. However, his later years in office were marred by controversies and declining public approval.
His resignation opens a period of uncertainty for Canada as the Liberal Party seeks new leadership while navigating a potentially contentious relationship with Trump’s administration.
