A significant backlash over an ad featuring Ronald Reagan has led president Trump to halt all trade negotiations with Canada.
The ad, sponsored by Ontario, used a 1987 clip of reagan warning against protectionism. Trump called the ad “fraudulent” and “fake” on truth social.
He accused Canada of “egregious behavior” and an attempt to meddle in US legal affairs. The ad was meant to protest US tariffs, now at 35%, on Canadian goods.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation also condemned the ad, stating the “selective audio” “misrepresents” the former president’s comments. Trump cited the foundation’s criticism.
The suspension of talks, confirmed by secretary of state Marco Rubio, adds new tensions to the relationship, which pm mark carney has been trying to stabilize.