U.S. President Donald Trump has abruptly ended all trade negotiations with Canada after an Ontario government advertisement criticized his tariffs.
The minute-long TV spot quoted former President Ronald Reagan saying tariffs “hurt every American,” prompting Trump to label the ad “FAKE” and “egregious” on social media, declaring talks “HEREBY TERMINATED.”
The Ontario-funded campaign, part of a C$75 million effort, targeted U.S. audiences and highlighted the economic toll of Trump’s 35% tariffs on Canadian imports, including steel and automobiles. Ontario has been among the hardest-hit provinces.
The Ronald Reagan Foundation accused Ontario of misusing the late president’s words and said it was reviewing legal options. Trump cited that statement, alleging the ad aimed to influence a pending Supreme Court ruling on the legality of his tariffs.
Prime Minister Mark Carney had been seeking to ease trade tensions since taking office, while Ontario Premier Doug Ford—one of Trump’s fiercest critics—has led a public campaign against U.S. tariffs. Neither has yet commented on Trump’s decision.
This marks the second time Trump has halted talks with Canada, following a similar dispute earlier this year over a proposed digital services tax.
