Mark Carney, Canada’s new Prime Minister, wasted no time criticizing Donald Trump, accusing him of trying to weaken Canada’s economy. In his victory speech, he slammed Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods and vowed to protect workers and businesses.

Meanwhile, outgoing PM Justin Trudeau gave an emotional farewell, as rising costs and immigration shaped the election. Trump, known for mocking Trudeau, has joked about annexing Canada—calling it America’s “51st state.”

Tensions between Canada and the US have escalated as Donald Trump imposed 25% tariffs on all imports from Canada and Mexico. His comments about making Canada the 51st state have further angered Canadians, sparking backlash across the country.

In protest, fans have booed the US national anthem at NHL and NBA games, some are boycotting American goods, and cafes have even renamed “Americanos” to “Canadianos.”

Canadian leader Mark Carney praised citizens for standing firm, declaring, “When we are united, we are Canada strong.” He reaffirmed that tariffs will remain until the US “shows respect.”

As Canada gears up for a spring election, the focus shifts to who can best navigate tensions with the United States. Mark Carney, a seasoned financial leader and former head of the Bank of Canada and Bank of England, is seen as a strong contender.

Carney previously took a firm stance against US policies, stating, “No way” to undue American influence. However, questions remain about whether he will adopt a more diplomatic approach toward Canada’s closest ally.

Meanwhile, Justin Trudeau, who announced his resignation in January, became emotional as he prepared to step down. He will remain prime minister until his successor is sworn in.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called this a “nation-defining moment,” urging Liberals to stand firm in defending democracy and national interests. In response to US trade policies, Canada announced 25% tariffs on $155 billion worth of American goods, with $30 billion in immediate action.

Trudeau warned that Canada must “hit back hard” to show that a trade war with them would have no winners. Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump defended America’s trade stance, arguing that the US deserves more leverage.

He cautioned Trudeau that any retaliatory tariffs would be met with an equal response from the US, further escalating tensions.

During a cabinet meeting last week, Trump claimed, “We subsidize them $200 billion a year. Without us, Canada can’t make it.” He went on to say, “You know, Canada relies on us 95 percent. We rely on them 4 percent. Big difference.”

He also suggested that if Canada wanted to avoid tariffs, it should consider becoming part of the United States. “I say Canada should be our 51st state. There’s no tariffs, no nothing,” he stated.

Additionally, Trump argued that because the U.S. shoulders most of the burden for Canada’s military protection, Canada should contribute more through tariffs. “We protect Canada. But it’s not fair. It’s not fair that they’re not paying their way. And if they had to pay their way, they couldn’t exist,” he said.