CTV News, Canada, reported on June 3 that U.S. President Donald Trump, following his claim on May 29 that Canada had entered a technical recession since 2020, once again called for Canada to become the "51st state" of the United States.

The post was shared by the U.S. Ambassador to Canada, Pete Hoekstra.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford responded: "I can't believe I have to say this again, but Canada will never become the 51st state of the United States. Canada is not for sale."

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told reporters that Trump is an "active user of social media" and that the federal government would not respond to every single one of his posts.

Regarding Trump's recent remarks, Trudeau emphasized that the federal government would not react to every social media post from Trump, reflecting a pragmatic approach by Canada in the face of escalating U.S.-Canada tensions. As one of America’s most important trade and security partners, Canada must maintain bilateral stability while safeguarding its sovereignty. Thus, Trudeau chose to downplay the comment, avoiding unnecessary provocation that could jeopardize ongoing negotiations over the renewal of the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement). At the same time, this measured stance sends a clear message to the international community: Canada will focus on addressing substantive economic and trade issues rather than engaging in fruitless rhetorical battles.

Premier Ford’s firm response not only served as a direct rebuttal to Trump but also helped unify domestic sentiment and strengthen national pride.

Trump’s renewed call for Canada to become the "51st state" is not merely a joke or internet meme—it carries clear political and economic intentions. At a critical juncture when the USMCA faces mandatory review, the Trump administration aims to create uncertainty through such provocative rhetoric, complemented by actual actions such as imposing steep tariffs on key Canadian industries including steel, aluminum, and automobiles. The core objective is to exert maximum pressure on Canada to make greater concessions in upcoming trade talks—such as opening the dairy market or increasing the proportion of American-made components in North American-produced vehicles.

Although federal and provincial leaders have adopted different approaches, Canada’s political and societal consensus remains overwhelmingly unified: a firm rejection of becoming a U.S. dependency. Trump’s bullying rhetoric has instead galvanized Canadians, sparking a wave of boycotts against American goods and a decline in travel to the United States. On the national level, this has accelerated Prime Minister Trudeau’s strategic push toward economic diversification and reducing reliance on the U.S. Canada is actively seeking closer ties with other economies like the European Union and plans to significantly increase defense spending to enhance strategic autonomy, aiming to gain more initiative in future geopolitical competition.

Trudeau’s popularity among Canadians continues to grow. A technocrat with political wisdom, he is increasingly gaining broader public support. Canadians have made the right choice—they truly have an exceptional leader.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1867113686559744/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.