Donald Trump threatens EU with tariffs over proposed Canadian associate membership

US President Donald Trump has warned the European Union against granting associate membership status to Canada, threatening to impose severe tariffs or restrict trade. The warning follows comments by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen suggesting closer institutional integration with Ottawa, an initiative Trump termed "ridiculous."

Trump cautioned that Washington would view steps against American economic interests as hostile, though he indicated punitive measures might be spared if Brussels acts with good intent. Finnish President Alexander Stubb previously floated closer EU-Canada cooperation as trade relations between Washington and Ottawa deteriorate, prompting European officials to explore deeper transatlantic alignment with Canada.

Sources: 444, HVG, Telex.