President Donald Trump issued a sharp warning to Canada on Thursday, accusing Ottawa of decades of unfair trade practices and threatening to block the opening of a major bridge linking Ontario and Michigan unless the United States receives what he called “full compensation.”
In a series of posts on Truth Social, Trump said the balance in U.S.–Canada relations is now shifting rapidly in Washington’s favor, arguing that Canada has long benefited from American markets while giving little in return.
Bridge Project at the Center of Dispute
Trump focused his criticism on a massive cross-border bridge project between Ontario and Michigan, noting that Canada controls both the Canadian and U.S. sides of the bridge. He claimed the project was built with virtually no American components, including U.S. steel.
The president blamed former President Barack Obama for granting what he described as a “foolish exemption” that allowed Canada to bypass the Buy American Act, enabling the use of foreign materials instead of American-made products.
Trade, Tariffs, and Alcohol Restrictions
Trump also highlighted long-standing disputes over Canadian tariffs on U.S. dairy products, calling them “unacceptable” and warning that they have placed American farmers under severe financial strain.
He further accused Ontario of banning American alcoholic beverages from store shelves, saying the province does not allow U.S. spirits or other alcohol products to be sold at all — a move he described as blatantly unfair.
China Factor Raises Alarm
Adding to the tension, Trump criticized Prime Minister Mark Carney for seeking closer economic ties with China, warning that Beijing would “consume Canada alive.” In a characteristically provocative remark, Trump claimed that China’s influence would even spell the end of Canadian ice hockey, joking that the Stanley Cup would disappear entirely.
Ultimatum and Ownership Demand
Trump made clear that he would not allow the bridge to open unless Canada agrees to fair treatment of the United States and provides compensation for what he described as years of imbalance.
He went further, suggesting that Washington should own at least half of the bridge asset, arguing that revenues generated from access to the U.S. market would be “astronomical.”
The president said negotiations will begin immediately, signaling that infrastructure, trade, and market access will be central issues in upcoming U.S.–Canada talks.
FAQs
Why is Trump threatening to block the bridge?
He argues that Canada unfairly benefited from U.S. markets while excluding American products and materials from the project.
What law did Trump mention?
The Buy American Act, which promotes the use of U.S.-made goods in federally funded projects.
Why is China mentioned in the dispute?
Trump claims Canada’s outreach to China poses economic and strategic risks.
Could the U.S. really own part of the bridge?
Trump suggested joint ownership as a negotiation outcome, though such a move would require complex legal agreements.
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