A deepening transatlantic trade rift has emerged as the European Union moves to integrate Canada as its first associate member, prompting sharp criticism from the United States. US officials have dismissed the proposal as a potential "hostile act," warning of possible retaliatory measures including severe tariffs or reduced trade access. The European Commission has framed the partnership as a step toward strengthening the bloc’s collective influence. Tensions highlight growing concerns over economic alliances and protectionist threats in global trade relations.
European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen says such a partnership is for the European Union’s ‘common strength’US president Donald Trump has threatened the European Union with “serious tariffs” and a cut to trade after the bloc proposed to make Canada its first ever associate member, calling the idea “laughable”.Suggesting the move was a “hostile act”, the US president told reporters he could put “very serious tariffs or stop trading with Europe”. He added: “If it’s a good intention, that’s fine. If it’s a bad intention, we’ll put very heavy tariffs on Europe.” Continue reading...
