President-elect Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that he plans to impose "very serious tariffs" on goods from Canada and Mexico and intends to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of America." Speaking at a press conference at Mar-a-Lago, Trump elaborated on his proposals to address trade imbalances, immigration, and national security concerns as he prepares to assume office on January 20.

"We’re going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring," Trump declared, adding that the name better reflects U.S. sovereignty.

Trump reiterated his previous threat to impose 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico, citing record levels of drugs crossing the border and increased illegal immigration. He claimed Canada relies heavily on U.S. military protection and economic subsidies, estimated at $200 billion annually, a figure disputed by analysts.

When asked whether he would use military force to annex Canada, Trump replied, "No—economic force. Because Canada and the United States, that would really be something. You get rid of that artificially drawn line, and it would also be much better for national security."

Trump’s comments come as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation earlier this week, leaving political uncertainty in the wake of upcoming elections. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, a frontrunner to succeed Trudeau, has stated, "Canada will never be the 51st state."

Trudeau responded to Trump’s remarks via social media, writing, “There isn’t a snowball’s chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States."

Beyond Canada, Trump also reiterated his interest in acquiring Greenland, citing its strategic importance in countering Russian and Chinese military activity. His son, Donald Trump Jr., is currently visiting Greenland to gauge public sentiment about closer ties with the U.S.

Regarding Mexico, Trump tied the tariffs to immigration issues and illicit drug trafficking, criticizing Mexico's inability to stop the flow of fentanyl into the United States.

The president-elect’s remarks drew criticism and support from various quarters. Retiring President Joe Biden defended the U.S.-Canada alliance, calling Canada "our closest partner and friend." Meanwhile, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene voiced her approval of Trump’s proposed name change for the Gulf of Mexico, pledging to introduce legislation to make it official.

Economic analysts have expressed concerns over the potential fallout of such tariffs, particularly for industries like automotive and lumber, which depend on cross-border trade. The Canadian dollar dropped 0.1% against the U.S. dollar following Trump’s comments, signaling market unease.

As Trump prepares to return to the White House, his unconventional proposals have reignited debate over U.S. foreign policy and trade relationships, with significant implications for the country’s neighbors and global partners.

New York Post Article