Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is facing backlash after his meeting with President-elect Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago. Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre called the visit “a failure,” accusing Trudeau of failing to address critical trade and immigration issues.
Trump recently announced a 25% tariff on Canadian imports unless Canada acts to curb illegal immigration and drug trafficking. Trudeau’s delayed response and subsequent meeting with Trump produced no assurances that the tariffs would be withdrawn, fueling criticism from provincial leaders and opposition politicians.
“Normally, a prime minister meets a president to secure gains for the country,” Poilievre said. “Trudeau accomplished nothing. He’s just trying to limit losses because he has lost control of everything from our borders to our economy.”
While Trump described the meeting as productive, focusing on trade fairness and drug trafficking, Trudeau provided no clear details on the outcome. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith argued that Trudeau’s energy policies weaken Canada’s negotiating power. “We are the solution to America’s energy security, but Trudeau’s production caps undermine that message,” she said.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has launched an advertising campaign to promote the province’s economy as an independent trading partner, while British Columbia Premier David Eby pledged to expand direct trade with the U.S.
The trip has reinforced criticism of Trudeau’s leadership. Poilievre concluded, “Canadians are paying the price for having a weak prime minister who has lost control.”
