Trump Meets Canadian Prime Minister amid Trade Tensions

President Donald Trump met with newly-elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, alternating between aggressive rhetoric and public displays of warmth. Prior to the meeting, Trump criticized Canada on social media, claiming the U.S. subsidizes its neighbor by $200 billion annually and stating the U.S. doesn't need Canadian goods, assertions that contradict economic data showing mutual dependence and a much smaller trade deficit. Despite his repeated musings about making Canada the '51st state,' Carney firmly rejected the idea, emphasizing that Canadian views on joining the U.S. would not change. In the Oval Office, Trump shifted to praise, congratulating Carney on his election and expressing a desire to maintain friendship between the two countries. The meeting took place against the backdrop of a trade war sparked by Trump's tariffs on Canadian imports, which have strained the long-standing alliance. Carney, known for his calm demeanor, has pledged to confront Trump's aggressive approach while seeking to preserve constructive relations.