Trump threatens trade with Europe if it makes Canada an associate member of the EU

Business Insider | 17-09-2026 11:18am |

President Donald Trump threatened to retaliate against Europe if the European Union makes Canada its first associate member, a proposal floated by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Trump called the plan "laughable" and said he could respond with heavy tariffs or curb trade if he viewed the move as hostile. The EU and Canada aim to deepen ties beyond trade, covering tech, energy, security, and the Arctic. Canada is also applying to join a British-led military coalition.

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