Trump Suggests Canada Become 51st US State, Sparking Heated Debate
In an interview aired before the Super Bowl, Donald Trump reignited a debate that could have far-reaching consequences by suggesting Canada's integration as the 51st state of the United States. This declaration immediately sparked strong reactions on both sides of the border.
Trump justified his proposal by highlighting the significant trade deficit between the two countries, estimated at $200 billion per year. According to him, Canada would be in a much more advantageous position if it became an American state, arguing that the US should not continue to "subsidize" the country through massive imports, particularly in the energy sector. In 2023, this deficit had reached $72 billion, mainly due to energy imports from Canada.
Beyond the economic aspect, Trump advanced several other arguments to support this idea. He mentioned the elimination of tariffs, which would facilitate trade between the two countries, as well as a significant reduction in taxes, which could be beneficial for both economies. Furthermore, he suggested that Canada's membership in the American Union would guarantee better security against "Russian and Chinese naval threats," thus evoking geopolitical concerns.
Although the US and Canada maintain strong trade relations, with the US representing 75% of Canadian exports, Trump's idea is part of a long series of trade tensions, where the former president had previously threatened to impose high tariffs on Canadian products.
On the other hand, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reacted cautiously. During a private meeting with business leaders, he acknowledged that Trump's proposal was "real," but specified that this initiative seemed motivated primarily by the desire to access Canada's natural resources. However, despite acknowledging the persistent trade tensions, the idea of annexation remains largely theoretical and unlikely in the immediate future. It reveals, however, Trump's willingness to exert maximum pressure on Ottawa and strengthen the US's economic and geopolitical position.
It remains to be seen how this proposal will influence the economic and diplomatic policies between the two nations, already marked by trade disputes.
