US President Donald Trump threatens EU tariffs over proposed Canadian associate membership

US President Donald Trump has warned that Washington could impose steep tariffs or restrict trade with the European Union if Brussels pursues associate membership status for Canada. Trump dismissed the initiative, originally proposed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, as "ridiculous" and suggested it could be viewed as a hostile act depending on European motives.

The diplomatic friction stems from growing trade tensions between the US and Canada, which previously prompted Finnish President Alexander Stubb to question whether Ottawa belongs closer to Europe. While Trump stated that no countermeasures would follow if European intentions remain benign, he insisted that trade restrictions remain an option if ties deepen further.

Sources: 444, HVG, Telex.