As Canada’s new Prime Minister Mark Carney seeks to strengthen European alliances amid rising tensions with the Trump administration, his unwavering support for Ukraine raises questions about his diplomatic priorities. How can Trump work with a guy like this?
At a glance:
• Mark Carney promised continued support for Ukraine during call with President Zelenskyy
• Carney chose France and UK as first foreign visits instead of traditional Washington trip
• Trump’s tariffs and “51st state” comments have strained US-Canada relations
• Carney maintains Trudeau’s policies on Ukraine, including $13.5 billion in aid
• Former banker with no political experience faces early diplomatic test with European tour
Carney Snubs Washington, Embraces European Allies
Canada’s newly minted Prime Minister Mark Carney has made waves by choosing Europe over Washington for his first international trip. The former banker, who took over from Justin Trudeau without any prior political experience, appears to be distancing himself from the Biden-Trump administration amid escalating trade disputes.
Carney’s European tour began in Paris with French President Emmanuel Macron, followed by a visit to London to meet UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles III. His decision to bypass Washington breaks with traditional Canadian diplomatic protocol, signaling potential trouble ahead for US-Canada relations.
During his Paris visit, Carney emphasized Canada’s European ties while subtly criticizing President Trump’s recent actions. Macron used the opportunity to criticize Trump’s tariff policies, which have targeted Canadian steel and aluminum exports.
Ukraine Support Continues Despite Leadership Change
Following in Trudeau’s footsteps, Carney has pledged unwavering support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. The Canadian Prime Minister spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shortly after taking office, reassuring him that Canada would continue its financial and military backing.
“The Prime Minister made the right points about how we need to step up pressure on Moscow,” Zelenskyy stated after their conversation. “The shadow fleet, the banking sector. We must impose all-out sanctions on everything that provides Russia with funding for its war.”
Canada has already provided $13.5 billion in aid to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion, making it one of the country’s most significant supporters. Carney has invited Zelenskyy to attend the upcoming G7 summit in Canada, further cementing the relationship.
Carney’s European diplomacy comes amid a change in tactics by President Trump on Ukraine, and suggestions that Canada could become the 51st state. In recent weeks, the president has imposed tariffs on Canada that will force Carney to make tough decisions.
Canada’s new Prime Minister is obviously no true friend to the United States, so things could soon get…tense. To say the least.
