A Canadian New York Times reporter revealed that many Canadians believe President Donald Trump’s trade war is not just about tariffs but something far more significant. Susanne Craig, speaking to MSNBC’s Nicolle Wallace, explained that Canadians she interviewed suspect Trump may have broader goals, such as securing mineral rights or even annexation. ‘I think this is going to play out in a really unsettling and awful way,’ Craig said, expressing concern as a Canadian herself.
Craig emphasized that the trade war has been chaotic, with Trump repeatedly changing tariff policies on Mexico and Canada. She described the tariffs as merely a tool—a ‘hammer’—to achieve his deeper objectives. Jason Furman, former White House Economic Adviser under Barack Obama, characterized Trump’s approach as unpredictable, citing fluctuations in tariff policies.
Canadians are reacting strongly to these developments. Many believe Trump’s actions reflect a desire for control beyond trade, potentially involving territorial or resource-related ambitions. In response, some Canadians have embraced boycotts and cultural shifts, such as renaming their coffee drinks to reflect their stance against American influence. A choir in Canada even removed songs by American artists from their repertoire, further illustrating the growing divide.
The situation remains tense, with no clear resolution in sight. As Trump’s administration continues to implement unpredictable policies, Canadians brace themselves for what they believe could be a prolonged and significant challenge.