Canada’s New Prime Minister Delivers Strong Message to Donald Trump

U.S.–Canada tensions are heating up — and Canada’s new leader isn’t holding back.

In his first national address after a major election victory, newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney took a direct shot at former President Donald Trump, escalating what’s already become a high-stakes cross-border standoff.

A Shocking Return to Power

Mark Carney, a former central banker with no prior political office, led Canada’s Liberal Party to a surprise comeback win in the national election. Once considered on the ropes, the party is now poised to form the next government.

Supporters packed an arena in Ottawa to celebrate as Canadian broadcaster CBC projected a Liberal victory around 10 p.m. Eastern. At 60, Carney becomes the new face of Canadian leadership, taking over from Justin Trudeau, who stepped down after more than 10 years in power.

And in his victory speech, Carney made one thing clear: he believes the U.S.—under Donald Trump—is threatening Canada’s independence.

“America wants our land, our resources, our water — our country,” Carney told cheering supporters. “But that will never, ever happen.”

He accused Trump of trying to “break” Canada for U.S. benefit, warning citizens not to underestimate the stakes.

Mounting Tensions With Washington

Carney’s comments come amid weeks of increasing friction between the two countries. Things boiled over after Trump made headlines by suggesting Canada could become the 51st U.S. state — and mocking Trudeau as the “Governor of Canada.”

Trump also claimed the U.S. spends $200 billion a year propping up Canada, stoking nationalist outrage north of the border.

Canada’s response has been swift. There’s been a surge in patriotic sentiment: Americans goods are being boycotted, travel plans to the U.S. are being canceled, and Canadian voters turned out in record numbers — with over 7 million casting early ballots.

Drawing a Line

Carney emphasized that Canada is no longer looking to the U.S. as its only economic partner.

“When I meet with President Trump, it will be as the leader of a sovereign nation — and with full confidence that Canada has other paths to prosperity,” he said.

He urged Canadians to support one another as the country navigates what he called a national crisis. “We’re buying Canadian. We’re exploring everything this country has to offer,” he said. “We’re standing by the communities caught in the crossfire of President Trump’s pressure campaign.”

Looking Ahead

Carney’s remarks signal a major shift in Canada’s tone toward the U.S., reflecting a broader reassessment of the relationship between the two longtime allies. With the rhetoric intensifying on both sides, the coming months could redefine cross-border diplomacy in North America.