Canada and Mexico hit back with tariffs on US as Trumps trade war escalates [Video]

President Donald Trump has escalated tensions with Canada, suggesting the nation should become “our cherished 51st state” as trade disputes intensify between the longtime allies.

The provocative comments came after both Canada and Mexico announced retaliatory tariffs in response to Trump’s new 25 per cent import duties on their goods.

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau hit back with a 25 per cent tax on £85.9bn of US products, including a 10 per cent levy on energy imports. The first £16.6bn in tariffs, targeting American alcohol and fruit, starts Tuesday, with £69.3bn more following in three weeks.

Writing on Truth Social, Trump said: “We pay hundreds of Billions of Dollars to SUBSIDIZE Canada. Why? There is no reason. We don’t need anything they have. We have unlimited Energy, should make our own Cars, and have more Lumber than we can ever use.”

He argued Canada would cease to be “viable” without USsupport, adding: “Therefore, Canada should become our Cherished 51st State. Much lower …