During the G7 summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed confidence in reaching a trade agreement with Canada, despite acknowledging differing views with Prime Minister Mark Carney. “I think our primary focus will be trade, and I’m sure we can work something out,” Trump said at the start of their bilateral meeting.
The two leaders, who have held weeks of private discussions, met face-to-face amid ongoing tensions over U.S. tariffs. Trump reiterated his support for tariffs, describing them as a simple and effective tool, while noting Carney’s approach as more complex but also “very good.”
Carney, welcoming Trump and extending birthday wishes, emphasized the importance of U.S. leadership in the G7, now marking its 50th year. Following their one-on-one, a broader meeting included Canadian and American officials, with both sides confirming progress in trade talks—though details remain confidential. Canadian Ambassador Kirsten Hillman noted growing U.S. understanding of Canada’s stance, particularly around the call to lift tariffs. When pressed on Trump’s past comments about making Canada a U.S. state, Canadian officials declined to respond. Earlier, Trump criticized former leaders Justin Trudeau and Barack Obama for Russia’s expulsion from the G8 in 2014, blaming that decision for the current war in Ukraine—despite factual inaccuracies. In contrast, he praised his rapport with Carney, calling their relationship “very good.”
The summit, hosted by Canada, is also focusing heavily on Ukraine, with President Zelenskyy in attendance. In his opening remarks, Carney stressed the need for unity amid global challenges, stating, “Nostalgia isn’t a strategy.”
