Amid threats of tariffs and a looming trade war, Canada has initiated plans to tighten its border security after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's meeting with President-elect Donald Trump, the New York Times reported Thursday.
Trump has threatened tariffs as a tool to motivate neighboring countries to do more to strengthen their border security and stem the flow of illegal immigrants, illegal narcotics, and combat human trafficking.
Trump in November warned non-compliant nations that he would impose a 25% tariff on all imports from Canada and Mexico.
"I will sign all necessary documents to charge Mexico and Canada a 25% Tariff on ALL products coming into the United States, and it's ridiculous Open Borders. This Tariff will remain in effect until such time as Drugs, in particular, Fentanyl, and all Illegal Aliens stop this Invasion of our Country! Both Mexico and Canada have the absolute right and power to easily solve this long simmering problem. We hereby demand that they use this power, and until such time that they do, it is time for them to pay a very big price!," Trump posted on his Truth Social platform.
Canada responded by announcing a tentative plan to deploy drones and canine units aiming to deter illegal border crossings and make technological investments, such as using lab technology, to detect and curb the flow of fentanyl. According to sources who asked not to be identified, the Trudeau government will present details including a timeline and budget and present to the incoming Trump administration before Jan. 20.
Doug Ford, the premier of Ontario, has pushed back, claiming tariffs would be "devastating to workers and jobs" in the U.S. and Canada.
"We will go to the extent of cutting off their energy, going down to Michigan, going down to New York state and over to Wisconsin," Ford said, threatening to disrupt electricity supply from the province to the U.S. "Americans are going to feel the pain as well, and isn't that sad."
Even if Canada's intentions align with Trump, finding enough manpower to carry out the agenda might be a different matter. Danielle Smith, the premier of Alberta, told The New York Times that the Canada Border Services Agency and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police cannot offer enough officers.
James Morley III ✉
James Morley III is a writer with more than two decades of experience in entertainment, travel, technology, and science and nature.
© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.