The address follows the Canadian Prime Minister revealing he’s stepping down from the role after nine years
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau grew emotional while revealing ‘great news’ to the Canadian people.
Justin Trudeau Announces Resignation Amid US-Canada Tariff Dispute, Secures Historic Childcare Deal
As tensions escalate between Canada and the US over Donald Trump’s ‘catastrophic’ tariffs, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has made a shocking announcement—he will be stepping down after nine years in office.
In an emotional address, captured by CTV News, Trudeau spoke directly to the Canadian people, reflecting on his time as leader and reaffirming his commitment to putting Canadians first.
“Every single day in this office, I have fought to put Canadians first. I’ve had your backs. And even in these final days of my government, we will not let you down—today, tomorrow, and long into the future.”
Before stepping down, Trudeau emphasized one of his government’s landmark achievements—securing a historic childcare agreement.
“Today, we have great news to share: We’ve reached a deal with 11 of 13 provinces and territories to extend the current Early Learning and Child Care program until March 2030.”
He underscored that childcare is a fundamental part of Canadian identity, alongside healthcare, social programs, and national pride.
Trudeau’s departure comes at a turbulent moment, as tensions rise over Trump’s controversial tariffs—which the prime minister fiercely condemned as ‘unjustified’. While Trudeau’s exit marks the end of an era, he leaves behind a legacy of social reform and unwavering advocacy for Canadian families.
Trump’s Tariffs Spark US-Canada Clash as Trudeau Pushes Back Before Exit
Last month, Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing steep tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, citing a need to hold them accountable for stopping the flow of dangerous drugs into the United States.
The order slapped a 25% tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico and a 10% tariff on Chinese imports, officially taking effect on March 4. Trump declared that the only way for Canada to avoid the tariffs was to “become [the US’] cherished 51st state.” Unsurprisingly, Canada declined.
The administration justified the move by alleging a rise in fentanyl production in Canada, claiming that enough fentanyl was seized at the northern border last year to kill 9.8 million Americans. The order also pointed to record-high illegal border crossings from Canada over the past four fiscal years.
However, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau fiercely rejected these claims, arguing that less than 1% of fentanyl seized at the US border comes from Canada. He highlighted Canada’s ongoing cooperation with the US, including a $1.3 billion border security plan to combat drug trafficking.
“We have worked relentlessly to address this scourge that affects both Canadians and Americans,” Trudeau asserted.
According to Trudeau, joint efforts with the US have already resulted in a 97% drop in fentanyl seizures from Canada between December 2024 and January 2025—evidence that, in his view, the tariffs are unjustified and politically driven.
As Trudeau prepares to step down, the trade war between the US and Canada threatens to escalate, leaving behind an uncertain path for his successor.
Canada Strikes Back with Counter-Tariffs as Trudeau Stands Firm
In a bold response to Trump’s steep tariffs, Canada has hit back with its own counter-tariffs, refusing to let what Trudeau called an “unjustified decision” go unanswered.
The Canadian government is also actively working with provinces and territories to explore additional non-tariff measures to protect its economy from the US-imposed penalties.
Though his time in office is nearing its end, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau remains resolute, making it clear that Canada will not back down.
“While we urge the US administration to reconsider their tariffs, Canada remains firm in standing up for our economy, our jobs, our workers, and for a fair deal,” Trudeau declared.
With both nations now locked in a trade standoff, the situation is set to test economic relations between the US and Canada like never before—just as Trudeau prepares to exit the political stage.
