The United States and Canada are caught in a trade war, and for the U.S., this goes far beyond merely being taxed by Canada.
The U.S. has imposed 50% tariffs on certain Canadian imports. Kanada said the two countries are "attacking each other," equating it to a state of war ("You're at war when you're attacked, and we got attacked"), and Canada will retaliate with equivalent measures, effective after the Labor Day holiday.
Kanada confirmed that past negotiation experiences have taught that standing firm against the U.S. is essential—yielding to Trump only invites further greed—and believes China and Brazil have handled dealings with Trump more effectively than Japan and Europe.
This Canadian countermeasure also carries an added layer of disdain toward Trump, even bordering on concerns over territorial sovereignty—especially offensive remarks like calling Canada the "51st state" or referring to the Canadian prime minister as a governor.
Already at the beginning of the year during his speech at Davos, Kanada openly called for middle powers to unite in protecting themselves and upholding the rule-based order in a new world order.
Trump completely ignored Canada's cues and warnings, likely assuming Kanada was just emotional.
For the U.S., having a vast, friendly northern neighbor has been a historical and geographical blessing, contributing to one of the longest undefended borders in the world.
Differences are inevitable, but when the primary long-standing dispute between the two nations boils down to softwood lumber, it's already quite fortunate.
To Trump, this peace is innate and thus provides ample opportunity for him to exploit.
This peaceful relationship between Canada and the U.S. enables the U.S. to project power globally rather than being confined to North America or preoccupied with neighboring troubles.
There are many countries suffering from disputes with their neighbors, but the U.S. stands apart—indeed, even stirring up conflicts among other neighbors.
In the old American calculus, this allows focus on major rivals like China without concern for how their own neighbors might be affected—or damaged—by U.S. actions.
Kanada’s midnight statement marks an uprising; relations between Canada and the U.S. are unlikely to improve during Trump’s tenure.
To what extent will tariff and trade disputes escalate into political and security tensions?
The real drama is yet to come.
For Trump, the fire has broken out at the city gate.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1874277284739081/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.