Trump Denounces EU-Canada Membership Talks as ‘Hostile Act,’ Threatens Tariffs
President Donald Trump characterized the European Union's potential move to grant Canada associate membership as a "hostile act" and warned of imposing additional tariffs on the EU in response. This statement comes as Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed enthusiasm…

Philadelphia, PA, September 17, 2026 — President Donald Trump has publicly declared the European Union’s consideration of granting Canada associate membership a “hostile act.” In response to this potential development, the President has also warned of imposing additional tariffs on goods from the European Union.
The comments from President Trump signal a sharp reaction to the ongoing discussions between Canada and the EU regarding closer integration. The nature of the proposed associate membership and the specific terms being considered were not detailed in the summary.
This situation unfolds against a backdrop of noted strain in relations between Canada and the United States. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has reportedly expressed enthusiasm for developing closer ties with Europe. According to the summary, Prime Minister Carney views such a move as a strategic opportunity to bolster Canada’s independence and sovereignty.
Details regarding the timeline for the EU’s decision on associate membership for Canada, the specific nature of the potential tariffs from the U.S., or the exact impact these developments might have on trade relations were not provided. The statement from President Trump indicates a potentially contentious period for international trade discussions involving the United States, Canada, and the European Union.
Story summarized from the original created by The Associated Press on www.inquirer.com, see more information here.