Mark Carney responds to Trump’s tariff threat over Canada-EU ties

STRASBOURG, FRANCE: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has responded to President Donald Trump’s warning over Ottawa's possible closer relationship with the European Union. Speaking at the European Parliament, Carney stressed that Canada and Europe are stronger when they work together.

The comments came Thursday, September 17, a day after European President Ursula von der Leyen suggested Canada should become an associate member of the EU to secure its relationship with the bloc at “the highest level possible.” Trump has warned that such a move could be considered a “hostile act” and could lead to heavy tariffs on Europe. 

Mark Carney backs closer Canada-EU relationship

Carney delivered his remarks to European lawmakers in Strasbourg as Canada and the EU discussed strengthening their relationship. The proposed associate-member status does not currently exist under EU law, and the terms of any new arrangement are still being discussed.

Without directly naming Trump, Carney stressed the importance of the relationship between Canada and Europe.

“We are not fair-weather allies. We do not pursue zero-sum deals. We hold common values for which we have always fought, and in whose defense we must always remain vigilant,” he said.

The Liberal Party leader added that both sides had strength on their own but could gain more by working together.

“Canada and Europe are each strong,” Carney said. “Europe and Canada are stronger together.” 

Trump warns EU of 'very serious tariffs'

Trump responded to the EU president's proposal from the tarmac before speaking at a rally in Charlotte, North Carolina.

“If it's a good intention, that's fine. If it's a bad intention, we'll put very heavy tariffs on Europe,” he told reporters.

He also criticized Canada’s treatment of the US.

“Canada's been a terrible trade partner,” Trump said. “If I think it's at all a hostile act, I will put very serious tariffs or stop trading with Europe on many things.”

Mark Carney and Trump face wider trade tensions

The dispute comes amid a large deterioration in Canada-US relations. Trump has imposed tariffs on Canadian goods and has repeatedly called for Canada to become the 51st US state.

After trade talks broke down in August, Trump used a largely unused part of the 1930 Tariff Act to impose 50% duties on more than $20 billion worth of Canadian goods.

Carney responded by increasing existing tariffs on US steel and aluminum and adding new levies on other American goods.

Trump’s relationship with the European Union has also been marked by repeated tariff threats.

The US and EU reached a trade agreement in July 2025 to avoid the most severe proposed tariffs, some of which had been as high as 200%.

Trump has also questioned Washington’s commitment to NATO allies and pushed members to increase spending on US defense contractors. He has additionally threatened retaliation over what he sees as insufficient support for his war in Iran.