Trump threatens EU over 'hostile' Canada association plan

US President Donald Trump warned on Wednesday that he might slash trade ties with the European Union if the bloc decides to make Canada its first associate member. EU chief Ursula von der Leyen floated the idea the day before Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was set to address the European Parliament. The suggestion emerged as both nations sought to distance themselves from an aggressive United States under Trump's administration.

Trump dismissed the proposal as "laughable," stating that if he perceived it as hostile, he would impose significant tariffs or cease trading with Europe. Von der Leyen advocated for deeper cooperation in areas such as technology, defense, and energy, claiming it was crucial for democracies to strengthen ties amid a fracture in the international rules-based system.

She proposed bringing Canada's relationship with the EU to the highest level possible, focusing on intelligent manufacturing, AI, cyber security, and the Arctic as key areas of collaboration.