Trump Warns EU of More Tariffs Over Proposed Associate Membership for Canada

WASHINGTON — U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that the European Union could face additional tariffs if it moves forward with a proposal to make Canada the bloc’s first associate member, describing the potential arrangement as a possible “hostile act” toward the United States.

Trump made the comments in Charlotte, North Carolina, after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposed closer institutional ties between Canada and the European Union during her annual State of the European Union address. Von der Leyen said the EU was prepared to explore making Canada its first associate member.

Trump said that if the proposed relationship between Canada and the EU were driven by negative intentions toward the United States, Washington could respond with significantly higher tariffs on European goods. He also indicated that the United States could consider restricting trade in certain sectors.

The comments come as relations between Washington and Ottawa have become increasingly strained over trade. The United States and Canada have imposed tariffs and countermeasures on a range of goods, while Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has sought to strengthen economic and strategic ties with Europe.

Von der Leyen’s proposal would deepen cooperation between the EU and Canada beyond their existing economic relationship. She has highlighted potential collaboration in areas including trade, defence, artificial intelligence, climate policy, critical minerals and Arctic affairs.

Carney, who was present in the European Parliament during von der Leyen’s address, has advocated stronger Canadian ties with European countries as Ottawa seeks to diversify its international economic relationships. Canadian officials have also discussed arrangements that could make it easier for Canadians to live and work in Europe.

The proposed associate membership is still at an exploratory stage, and its precise terms and legal framework have not been established. Any such arrangement would require further discussions among EU member states and Canadian authorities.

The dispute highlights the broader trade tensions involving the United States, Canada and the European Union. Further tariff measures threatened by Washington could add pressure to businesses and consumers on both sides of the Atlantic while Canada continues discussions with European partners over expanded economic and strategic cooperation.