Prime Minister Mark Carney and President Donald Trump spoke by phone today, offering a brief pause in the escalating trade battle that has dominated Canada’s federal election campaign.
Moments after their call, Trump took to Truth Social to share his thoughts.
“I just finished speaking with Prime Minister Mark Carney, of Canada. It was an extremely productive call, we agree on many things, and will be meeting immediately after Canada’s upcoming Election to work on elements of Politics, Business, and all other factors, that will end up being great for both the United States of America and Canada. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” posted Trump.
Carney, on Day 6 of the campaign, has repeatedly warned that Trump’s decision to impose a 25% tariff on cars and light trucks not made in the United States is hurting the economy.
Although Carney has pledged to fight back if required, Carney insisted Canada would proceed cautiously.
“We are taking a wait-and-see approach,” Carney told reporters on Thursday, adding that he expects another round of “reciprocal tariffs” next week.
"The Prime Minister and the President had a very constructive conversation about the relationship between our two countries," said a Canadian government press release.
Trump has called April 2 “Liberation Day,” suggesting more trade actions could be announced then.
Carney, who stepped away from the campaign trail for Friday’s meeting, plans to consult with Canada’s premiers about how the tariffs might impact local industries.
Meanwhile, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre continues to make stops in British Columbia.
“Like all Canadians, I hope they had a successful talk, and I look forward to hearing about the results,” said Poilievre.
Voters are pressing all parties to explain their strategies for handling the growing trade standoff.
Carney’s decision to speak directly with Trump shows how serious the matter has become.
With Canada’s federal election now in full swing, the conversation between the two leaders is expected to influence the direction of the campaign and, potentially, the future of Canada-US relations.
