Canada Cheated and Got Caught!’ Trump Cancels Trade Talks in Explosive Response to Ontario Tariff Ad
President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that the U.S. will terminate all trade negotiations with Canada. The move comes after the Canadian province of Ontario released a controversial advertisement criticizing U.S. tariffs. Trump claimed the ad was fraudulent and that Canada “cheated and got caught.”
The Ad That Sparked the Fallout
Ontario’s campaign cost roughly CAD $75 million and used edited excerpts of a 1987 radio address by former President Ronald Reagan. The ad accused U.S. tariffs of hurting American workers.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation stated Ontario did not ask permission to use or edit Reagan’s speech and that the ad misrepresents his words.
In response, Trump blasted the campaign on his social media platform, writing: “CANADA CHEATED AND GOT CAUGHT!!!”
Why Trump Says Trade Talks Ended
Trump argued that the ad was part of a scheme to influence the upcoming Supreme Court case on U.S. tariffs. He called the behaviour by Canada “egregious” and used strong language saying the U.S. will no longer negotiate under such conduct.
He also said tariffs are vital to U.S. national security and economic strategy. “TARIFFS ARE VERY IMPORTANT TO THE NATIONAL SECURITY, AND ECONOMY, OF THE U.S.A.” he posted.
Canada’s Response
Ontario Premier Doug Ford defended the ad campaign, saying it used an “unedited excerpt” and served to alert American voters that U.S. tariffs could harm U.S. jobs.
However, Canada’s national government has yet to issue a full comment. Prime Minister Mark Carney acknowledged the challenges of U.S.-Canada trade policy and the importance of the moment but stressed Canada must act in its national interest.
Wider Trade Conflict: Background
The decision to end talks comes amid the broader 2025 U.S.–Canada trade war, which began when the U.S. imposed near-universal tariffs on Canadian goods.
Canada has responded with counter-measures, including higher export taxes on electricity and other goods from Ontario to the U.S.
The ad from Ontario was seen by U.S. officials as a direct challenge to Trump’s tariff programs and trade strategy.
Possible Impact of the Move
- Economic disruptions: Ending trade talks could add uncertainty for companies in both countries, especially in auto, energy, and agricultural sectors.
- Legal consequences: The Ronald Reagan Foundation is reviewing legal options against Ontario for misuse of Reagan’s speech.
- Diplomatic strain: With both leaders scheduled to attend summits in Asia soon, relations could grow even more tense.
- Political messaging: Trump’s move projects a hardline stance on tariffs and trade fairness; Canada is now publicly calling for diversification away from U.S. dependence.
What Happens Next
The U.S. and Canada were planning discussions under the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement review, but those are now on hold. The White House and Canadian government remain at odds over procedure and trust.
Business groups in both countries are likely to push for a return to talks. Still, the damage especially in public perception may be harder to reverse.
Observers say the disruption may affect supply-chains and cross-border investment, at least until senior officials meet and rebuild trust.
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