United States President Donald Trump has threatened the European Union with new tariffs regarding its proposal to grant Canada the status of the bloc’s first ‘associate member.’ Trump suggested that this move could be viewed as hostile to the US.
Speaking to reporters in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Wednesday, Trump indicated that his response would depend on the intentions of European leaders. He stated, "If it’s a good intention, that’s fine. If it’s a bad intention, we’ll put very heavy tariffs." He also mentioned that the US could cease trading with Europe on various matters.
Trump characterized the idea of Canada joining the EU as “laughable” and referred to Canada as a “terrible trade partner.” His remarks followed European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's proposal to consider Canada as the EU’s first “associate member,” which aims to strengthen ties with Europe amid a declining relationship with the US.
The specifics of what “associate membership” would entail remain uncertain, as this status does not currently exist under EU treaties, and von der Leyen did not clarify the associated rights or obligations. Any proposal would require approval from EU member states.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s office expressed support for a “far stronger, more ambitious alliance in the future,” but did not specifically endorse the concept of associate membership. Carney has previously described Canada’s goal as establishing a “unique alliance” with Europe rather than full membership in the EU.
Canada and the EU are already exploring closer cooperation in areas such as trade, technology, defense, energy, critical minerals, and the Arctic, with further discussions anticipated at a Canada-EU summit in Montreal next month. This initiative aligns with Canada’s aim to decrease its economic reliance on the US amid ongoing trade tensions between the two countries.