Ford, Smith disagree on using energy as leverage in U.S. trade talks

Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith maintain disagreement over using energy resources as a bargaining chip in trade discussions with the United States, while agreeing on the importance of increasing oil transportation within Canada. Ford recently urged all provinces to adopt a "Team Canada" strategy, utilizing resources like oil to "inflict pain on the U.S." Smith, however, firmly opposes cutting off Alberta's oil exports to the United States, asserting that such a move would inflict significant harm on Canadians and is not a feasible solution.

The two premiers engaged in a conversation on Monday, following Ford's call for a united approach to address recent tariff developments. Ford stated that they differ on certain matters but continue to collaborate on advancing a proposed oil pipeline from Alberta to refineries in Sarnia, Ontario, passing through Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Ford mentioned his intention to meet with Smith in person in Alberta shortly.

While Ford toned down his language against former U.S. President Donald Trump in a recent press conference, where he labeled Trump a "loser" and a "bully," he expressed no regrets, stating that his words had resonance globally.