Washington, D.C., February 21, 2025 – The Europe Today: In a provocative statement at the Republican Governors Association (RGA) Meeting dinner in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, former President Donald Trump reiterated his desire to absorb Canada into the United States as its 51st state. Trump’s remarks, captured by media outlets, were centered on trade relations between the U.S. and Canada, and his view of the potential economic benefits of such a move.
“I think Canada, you know, they’re gonna have to pay tariffs on automobiles, lumber, and oil and gas, etcetera, and they get 95% of their product from the United States,” Trump said. He suggested that these trade dynamics could lead to Canada’s integration into the U.S. as a state, adding, “I think they have to become the 51st state.”
Trump’s comments then shifted to a more lighthearted note, touching on a recent international hockey game in Montreal, where Canadians reportedly booed the U.S. national anthem. Trump expressed confidence that the situation would improve over time. “I think they’ll ultimately be praising the national anthem,” he remarked, humorously noting that a deal would need to be worked out. He added that he was fond of the Canadian national anthem, “O Canada,” and suggested it could remain as part of the national identity if Canada were to join the U.S.
In his comments on Canada’s leadership, Trump referred to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as a “governor” and complimented his efforts in office. “I think he’s doing a wonderful job,” Trump said, though he also noted that Trudeau’s political challenges, including the potential cost of his re-election bid, could change the future of Canadian leadership.
The former president concluded with further remarks on international relations, including references to Greenland and the Panama Canal, continuing his bold rhetoric on American territorial interests.
Trump’s comments once again sparked discussions on U.S.-Canada relations, trade policy, and his ongoing influence in American politics. His suggestion of Canada’s statehood, while unlikely to gain traction in the immediate future, added another chapter to his provocative public statements.
