Trump threatens EU tariffs over proposal for Canadian associate membership

US President Donald Trump has warned the European Union of potential economic retaliation, including high tariffs and trade suspensions, over proposals to deepen ties with Canada. The warning follows a suggestion by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to grant Canada associate membership status in the bloc, an initiative Finnish President Alexander Stubb previously highlighted amid growing friction between Washington and Ottawa.

Trump described the proposal as "ridiculous" and cautioned that any action viewed as unfriendly would trigger trade restrictions, though he noted that US policy would depend on the intent behind the move. Tensions between Washington and Ottawa have increasingly driven European leaders to explore closer strategic cooperation with Canada.

Sources: 444, HVG, Telex.