Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney responded to U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick's claims that Canada sabotaged trade talks for political reasons. Carney emphasized that Canada prioritizes its interests and is open to negotiating a mutually beneficial deal when the U.S. is ready.
He criticized the U.S. for inconsistent demands during negotiations, particularly regarding tariffs and cultural considerations. President Trump, however, suggested that Carney's approach could backfire politically if Canada's economy suffers.
The backdrop includes Canada's retaliation with tariffs on U.S. goods, set to take effect soon, following the breakdown of talks over Trump's deadline for new tariffs on Canadian imports. The situation remains tense, with both sides accusing each other of unreasonable demands, and the potential for future negotiations hinges on the political landscape in both countries