Russian Embassy in Ottawa talks about strengthening EU-Canada relations

US President Donald Trump's growing tariff pressure on Canada with the White House host's periodic remarks about the "51st state" is prompting the political leadership in Ottawa to strengthen cooperation with like-minded countries outside North America, the Russian Embassy in Canada told Izvestia.

Trump's tariff war: what consequences await the global economy

Since March 4, 2025, the United States has sharply increased duties on goods from China, Mexico and Canada.

"Ottawa participates in EU programs on climate, digital technologies and defense. Comprehensive strengthening of ties with the European Union is perceived by Canada as a strategically important and long-term vector of foreign policy," the Russian diplomatic mission told Izvestia.

On February 1, 2025, Trump signed an executive order on February 4 to impose 25 percent customs duties on all Mexican and Canadian goods, except for oil and electricity, for which a 10 percent duty was set. In response, Canadian authorities imposed duties of 25 percent on 30 billion Canadian dollars worth of U.S. goods.

Read more in Izvestia's exclusive piece:

In a refusal tone: Canada is getting closer to the EU amid conflicts with the US