US President Donald Trump has warned the European Union that it could face “very serious tariffs” if Canada is granted an associate membership arrangement with the bloc.
Trump made the warning while responding to questions about a proposal aimed at strengthening ties between Canada and the EU.
He described the idea as “laughable” but said his response would depend on its purpose.
“If I think it’s at all a hostile act, I will put very serious tariffs or stop trading with Europe,” Trump said.
He added that the situation would be different if the proposal was made with “good intention.”
Canada Seeks Closer EU Ties
The proposal comes as Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney seeks a closer relationship with the European Union.
The idea of giving Canada some form of associate status has received backing from a European Commission official.
Carney is also scheduled to address the European Parliament as discussions over the proposed relationship continue.
EU Faces Internal Hurdle
The proposed arrangement would face a major hurdle within the EU.
The bloc has never previously created an associate membership category.
Any such agreement would require approval from all 27 EU member states.
That could prove difficult because EU governments have different views about creating a special relationship for Canada.
Concerns Over Ukraine
The debate also comes after a similar proposal involving Ukraine faced opposition within the EU.
Germany had proposed associate membership for Ukraine, but other member states rejected the idea in May.
Some EU countries have questioned whether special arrangements should be created for political reasons.
They have also pointed to countries such as North Macedonia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, which have pursued full EU membership for years.
Trade Tensions With Washington
Trump’s warning adds another layer to existing trade tensions between Washington, Ottawa and Brussels.
The United States recently increased tariffs on Canadian goods.
Canada responded with tariffs of its own.
Trump’s latest comments suggest that any deeper EU-Canada integration could face scrutiny from Washington, particularly if the US administration views it as harmful to American interests.
