Canada and Europe United on Tuesday reacted to the United States' newly imposed steel and aluminum tariffs, promising a strong response. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that Canada would take decisive action in response to the United States' newly imposed steel and aluminum tariffs, describing them as "unacceptable." Speaking on the sidelines of the Paris Artificial Intelligence Summit, Trudeau made it clear that if necessary, Canada would respond firmly to safeguard its economic interests.

"Canadians will stand up strongly and firmly if we need to," Trudeau said, in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to raise tariffs without exemptions. Trump’s move is aimed at boosting the US steel industry but risks escalating a broader global trade conflict.

Trudeau's remarks reflect growing discontent over the US tariffs, which have been criticized as a challenge to global trade harmony. While the US aims to boost its domestic industries, the tariffs have sparked international backlash. Trudeau emphasised that the tariffs would have a negative impact on global trade relations and particularly on Canada’s economy, which is closely linked to the US through trade agreements like the USMCA.

EU Condemns US Tariffs

The tariffs have faced widespread criticism, with several international leaders expressing concerns over the potential repercussions. European Union (EU) President Ursula von der Leyen also condemned the US tariffs, vowing that they would "not go unanswered." She warned that the EU would implement tough countermeasures, with a focus on safeguarding its economic interests.

"The EU will act to safeguard its economic interests. We will protect our workers, businesses and consumers," von der Leyen stated, reaffirming the bloc's commitment to defending its market. She also criticized the imposition of tariffs, calling them "taxes — bad for business, worse for consumers," and made it clear that the EU’s response would be "firm and proportionate."