Lutnick’s intervention in Canada talks draws praise and blame

U.S.-Canada trade negotiations unraveled under intense pressure from Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, according to sources familiar with the situation, ultimately leading to the imposition of new tariffs by President Donald Trump and Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney promising a counterattack. As the two nations teetered on the brink of an all-out trade conflict, Lutnick's actions during the final talks have come under scrutiny.

The Commerce Secretary viewed a proposed framework deal as excessively lenient towards Canada and became a staunch advocate for U.S. metal producers seeking to reclaim concessions, according to individuals who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the negotiations. The Canadian government accuses Lutnick of altering the terms of the agreement, while some domestic business leaders argue he successfully thwarted what they perceived as a threat to U.S. metal industries that President Trump has pledged to shield.