Trump Thwarts Canada-EU Pivot With Tariff Threat

Canada is unlikely to join the EU, but Trump’s blunt warning of “serious tariffs” on Europe underscores Washington’s willingness to punish moves that could dilute U.S. economic leverage. Ottawa is pursuing closer ties with Europe and other middle powers to diversify exports (including LNG) and lessen reliance on the United States, while the EU tests ideas like an associate membership that have drawn pushback. Despite these shifts, Canada still exports roughly 72% of its goods to the U.S., making a rapid break from the two-way economic relationship unlikely.