Trump threatens EU with tariffs over proposed Canada associate membership

US President Donald Trump has issued threats of severe tariffs and trade cutbacks against the European Union following a proposal by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to offer Canada associate membership status.

Trump called the initiative "ridiculous" and warned that Washington could treat the move as a hostile gesture depending on the intent behind it. He emphasized that potential economic retaliation would depend on whether European leaders acted with "bad intentions."

The dispute highlights growing geopolitical tensions as trade friction between Washington and Ottawa intensifies. European leaders, including Finnish President Alexander Stubb, previously noted the shifting dynamic, pointing out that Canada's deepening friction with the US is driving closer cooperation between Ottawa and Brussels.

Sources: 444, HVG, Telex.