UNB :
In a provocative statement just hours after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation, US President-elect Donald Trump has once again proposed making Canada the 51st state of the United States.
Trump, 78, revived the controversial offer following Trudeau’s resignation on Monday, which came amid mounting pressure from his ruling Liberal Party due to his dwindling popularity. Trudeau, 53, stated he would remain in office until a new party leader was selected. General elections are set for later this year.
This is not the first time Trump has suggested a “merger” between the two nations. Since his meeting with Trudeau after his November 5 electoral victory at his Mar-a-Lago estate, Trump has repeatedly floated the idea. His most recent remarks, shared on Truth Social, came after the Canadian Prime Minister’s resignation.
“Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State. The United States can no longer suffer the massive trade deficits and subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat. Justin Trudeau knew this, and resigned,” Trump posted.
The President-elect further elaborated on the potential benefits of such a union: “If Canada merged with the US, there would be no tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be Totally secure from the threat of the Russian and Chinese ships that are constantly surrounding them. Together, what a great nation it would be!!!”
Trump’s remarks have raised eyebrows internationally, but there has yet to be any official response from Canadian authorities.
The proposal also follows Trump’s previous threats of imposing a 25 per cent tariff on Canadian imports if the Canadian government fails to curb the flow of illicit drugs and illegal migrants from its southern border with the US.
As the situation in Canada continues to evolve following Trudeau’s resignation, the prospect of Trump’s offer to absorb the country into the US remains a controversial and unlikely topic of discussion.
