Carney Says US Trade Talks Have Turned ‘Nasty’

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated on August 6 that trade negotiations with the United States have turned ‘nasty’ after President Donald Trump criticized Canada’s leadership. The dispute is significant due to existing US tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminum, and autos, with Trump threatening to impose 50% tariffs on more goods starting August 19. Despite Trump’s comments, Carney said Canada remains engaged in the negotiations, describing the talks as a fight to protect Canadian workers and businesses. Trump criticized Canada during a speech in Las Vegas, saying ‘Canada’s nasty. They are. They’re nasty. I love the people, but they’re nasty. Nasty leadership.’ The US already has tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminum, and automobiles, and Trump’s tariff threats have angered many Canadians. The situation has prompted many Canadians to cancel trips to the US, and Canadian officials say their countermeasures were a response to existing US tariffs. The latest comments follow months of escalating tensions between the two countries, with Carney criticizing major powers for using economic coercion against smaller countries at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, in January. Carney noted that existing US tariffs on aluminum have contributed to a 58% increase in aluminum prices in the US, saying ‘that’s not a good situation for American companies.’,