President Donald Trump defended his recent tariffs against Canada, Mexico, and China, while hinting that the European Union may suffer a similar fate. The tariffs, which go into effect on Tuesday, will impose a 25% additional tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, and a 10% tariff on imports from China.
Trump accused Canada of being “abusive” towards the U.S. in terms of trade, claiming that Canada does not allow U.S. banks to operate in the country and imposes restrictions on U.S. farm products. He also claimed that the U.S. subsidizes Canada by about $200 billion a year.
The Republican leader also threatened to impose tariffs on the European Union, which he said has a $300 billion trade deficit with the U.S. He claimed that the EU does not take U.S. cars or farm products, but instead takes everything from the U.S.
The tariffs have invited international criticism from leaders and citizens alike in Canada and Mexico. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum rejected the White House’s claims that her country has alliances with criminal organizations and any intention of intervention in Mexican territory.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded to the tariffs by encouraging Canadians to “buy Canada” and to check the labels of products to see if they are made in Canada.
Trump also discussed the prospect of cutting off aid to South Africa after its president signed a controversial land seizure measure. He accused South Africa of “treating certain classes of people VERY BADLY” and stated that the U.S. won’t stand for it and will act.
