Canada's Conservative Leader Rejects Trump's 51st State Proposal and Tariff Threats

Pierre Poilievre vows to defend Canada's sovereignty and warns of retaliation against U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods.

Pierre Poilievre, leader of Canada's Conservative Party, firmly rejected President Trump's suggestion that Canada become the 51st U.S. state during a rally in Ottawa on Saturday.
Poilievre criticized Trump's proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum, pledging to implement retaliatory tariffs if the U.S. moves forward with the plan.
The Conservative leader warned that such tariffs would harm both economies, raise consumer costs, and weaken the U.S.–Canada alliance, potentially benefiting adversaries.
Trump's repeated comments about annexing Canada have strained relations, with Poilievre emphasizing Canada's independence and willingness to seek alternative allies if necessary.
Canada's next federal election, expected later this year, is likely to see Poilievre as the frontrunner to replace outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.