In a new escalation of tensions with Canada, U.S. President Donald Trump, on Sunday, called for Canada to be annexed as the 51st U.S. state. Trump indicated that the United States pays “hundreds of billions of dollars to support Canada,” referencing the trade deficit between the two countries. He added, “Without this massive support, Canada would not exist as a viable country. Therefore, Canada should become our beloved 51st state.”

These remarks come after the U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on imported products from Canada and Mexico, and a 10% tariff on Canadian energy imports, until these countries cooperate with Washington in combating drug trafficking and immigration. A 10% tariff was also imposed on goods coming from China.

Earlier, during his participation in the World Economic Forum in Davos via video link, Trump said: “We will demand respect from other countries... dealing with Canada has been very difficult over the years.”

In response to these statements, Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly stated that her country “will not back down in the face of Trump’s threats,” emphasizing that Canada will never be part of the United States. She added that Trump’s remarks reflect “his lack of understanding of what makes Canada strong.”

The former Prime Minister of Canada, Jean Chrétien, also criticized Trump’s statements, writing in an article for the Globe and Mail: “To Donald Trump, from one senior to another, change your way of thinking!” He added: “What could make you think that Canadians would give up the best country in the world to join the United States?”

These developments reflect the rising tension in relations between the United States and Canada, particularly in light of recent trade and economic policies.