Former President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau engaged in a phone conversation on Saturday, covering a range of topics from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine to matters of US border security, as confirmed by a White House statement released later that evening.
The call commenced with a lighter note, acknowledging the recent 4 Nations Face-Off hockey tournament won by Canada. Both leaders expressed mutual respect for the teams' performance in the championship game. The conversation then shifted to the upcoming G7 call, coinciding with the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine. Trudeau reportedly echoed Trump's desire for a resolution to the conflict, emphasizing Trump's unique position to negotiate a lasting peace. Trump reiterated his stance that the war would have been averted under his presidency.
Border security, a contentious issue, also featured prominently in the discussion. This follows Trump's previously imposed tariffs in response to drug trafficking across the US-Canada border, tariffs which were temporarily paused earlier in February. Trudeau asserted that Canada has significantly curbed fentanyl flow into the US, highlighting the upcoming visit of Canada's border czar to Washington for discussions with US border chief Tom Homan. The relationship between the two leaders has seen its share of tension recently, stemming from the tariff issue and Trump's past expressions of interest in Canada becoming a US territory. Trudeau has previously commented on these remarks, suggesting they reflect an awareness of Canada's resources.
Trump has previously criticized the US trade deficit with Canada and questioned Canada's viability as a country without what he termed "massive subsidies." He has also suggested, often tongue-in-cheek, that Canada should become the 51st US state, touting the perceived benefits of lower taxes, enhanced military protection, and the elimination of tariffs. Following Canada's hockey victory, Trudeau responded to Trump's past comments on social media, emphasizing Canada's sovereignty.
