U.S. President Donald Trump announced the termination of trade negotiations with Canada, citing a television ad campaign opposing his tariffs.
The Ontario government spent approximately $75 million on the ads, which featured former President Ronald Reagan speaking about tariffs in 1987. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation stated that Ontario misrepresented Reagan’s remarks and did not seek permission to use or edit the footage. The foundation is reviewing legal options and encouraged audiences to view the original speech.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s office defended the campaign, noting that the clip was from a public-domain public address. “President Ronald Reagan knew and spoke directly to Americans that tariffs hurt the U.S. economy, workers and families,” the statement said, emphasizing Reagan’s support for free and fair trade between Canada and the U.S.
Trump first noticed the advertisement earlier this week. He later remarked that he would run a similar ad if he were Canada. On Thursday, he claimed that Canada funded the ads to “interfere with the decision of the U.S. Supreme Court, and other courts.”
The announcement comes as the Supreme Court prepares to hear arguments in November regarding the legality of Trump’s global tariff measures under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). Trump used IEEPA citing national security concerns, including fentanyl trafficking, to impose 35% tariffs on Canadian goods, alongside sector-specific duties on steel, aluminum, copper, automobiles, and lumber.
The decision to halt negotiations may surprise Canadian officials, who had anticipated progress following Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent visit to the White House. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc had reported ongoing discussions, while Carney noted he would not “overplay” any deals in the immediate term.
Both Carney and Trump are expected to attend the upcoming APEC summit in South Korea. Carney has indicated he plans to meet with Trump as well as other world leaders to explore trade diversification opportunities.
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