U.S. President Donald Trump meets with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 6, 2025. REUTERS/Leah Millis
May 6, 2025
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney visited the White House on Tuesday, holding his first official talks with U.S. President Donald Trump since his election victory on April 28. The meeting focused on trade, security, and the future of the U.S.-Canada relationship, with Carney unequivocally rejecting any notion of annexation.
Canada “Not for Sale”
In response to President Trump’s recurring public musings about Canada becoming part of the United States, Carney stated firmly during their Oval Office session:
“It’s not for sale, it won’t be for sale — ever.”
Trump, while dismissing annexation as a formal topic of discussion, called the idea “a wonderful marriage” and replied, “Never say never.”
Trade Tensions and USMCA
The dialogue between the two leaders centered around economic relations, particularly in light of:
- U.S. tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminum, and auto parts.
- Trump’s increasing skepticism about the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), due for review in 2026.
Carney avoided proposing a complete overhaul of the agreement, suggesting instead that “some things” in the deal should be changed. Trump described USMCA as “fine” and criticized former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and ex-Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland for their handling of previous negotiations.
Despite trade disputes, both leaders sought to avoid confrontation. Trump said the two nations would discuss “tough points,” adding that “regardless of anything, we’re going to be friends with Canada.”
Diplomatic Tone and Domestic Priorities
Carney, a former central banker with no prior political experience, campaigned on standing up to Trump and diversifying Canada’s U.S.-dependent economy. Ahead of the meeting, he downplayed the prospect of immediate breakthroughs, a view reinforced when Trump responded “no” when asked if Carney could persuade him to lift tariffs.
Observers praised Carney’s diplomatic performance. Greg MacEachern, a former government adviser, said Carney “pushed back in a respectful Canadian way… without elevating the temperature.”
Economic Context
Canada is the second-largest U.S. trading partner after Mexico, with over $760 billion in goods exchanged in 2024. However, the U.S. trade deficit with Canada — largely due to oil imports — has drawn Trump’s ire. In March, U.S. tariffs contributed to a $3.7 billion drop in Canadian exports, the second-largest recorded decline.
In a move that could further affect Canadian industries, Trump announced a 100% tariff on all foreign-produced films without specifying timelines or exemptions. The decision could significantly impact Canada’s film sector.
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