Canada’s new prime minister, Mark Carney, is set to meet with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office to address the escalating tensions between the two countries. Trump’s aggressive stance, including threats to make Canada the 51st U.S. state and imposing tariffs on essential Canadian exports, has sparked outrage and led to Carney’s Liberal Party securing a significant victory. Carney aims to stand up to Trump and protect Canadian interests in the face of what he describes as a “once-in-a-lifetime crisis.”

The meeting comes amid global concerns about managing relations with the U.S., with leaders like the UK’s Keir Starmer opting for charm offensives while others, such as Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, facing Trump’s ire. Despite advice against meeting Trump, Carney is determined to have constructive discussions, focusing on trade pressures and broader economic and security relationships.

Trump’s dismissive remarks about Canada’s military spending and energy contributions have strained the longstanding partnership, even as Canada remains a crucial trade partner for the U.S. Carney aims to protect Canadian jobs, particularly in the auto industry, amidst ongoing trade disputes and tariffs imposed by the U.S. The outcome of this pivotal meeting will have significant implications for both countries, given their intertwined economies and shared history of cooperation.