Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has categorically rejected President-elect Donald Trump’s suggestion to absorb Canada into the United States as its 51st state.
Trudeau described the idea as unrealistic and emphasized the importance of the two nations maintaining their independent identities.
“There isn’t a snowball’s chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States. Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each other’s biggest trading and security partner,” Trudeau stated firmly on X.
Trudeau’s strong response comes amid Trump’s repeated references to Trudeau as a “governor” and his remarks about potentially using “economic force” to facilitate a merger.
Speaking from Palm Beach, Florida, Trump floated the idea, claiming it would benefit both economies and strengthen national security.
“That would really be something. You get rid of the artificially drawn line and you take a look at what that looks like and it would also be much better for national security. Don’t forget: We basically protect Canada,” Trump stated.
Trump also criticized Canada’s military capabilities and alleged that the U.S. is subsidizing the Canadian economy.
While ruling out military action, Trump hinted at using economic measures, including tariffs, to pressure Canada into compliance.
The U.S. imported goods worth approximately C$614.3 billion from Canada in 2022, including key sectors like automotive, lumber, and dairy.
Trump questioned the necessity of these imports, arguing that American taxpayers are not obligated to support Canada economically.
This marks one of Trump’s boldest statements since his election victory in November, where he reiterated plans to impose substantial tariffs on Canada and Mexico unless they address U.S. concerns about border security.
Although Trump did not campaign on annexing Canada, he has frequently spoken about Canada becoming the “51st state.”
Former U.S. ambassador to Canada, Gordon Giffin, downplayed Trump’s comments, describing them as a negotiating tactic to address economic disputes.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre responded unequivocally, stating, “Canada will never be the 51st state. Period.”
Trudeau, who recently announced his intention to step down after a new Liberal leader is chosen, used this opportunity to reaffirm Canada’s sovereignty and its strong but independent relationship with the U.S.
