Canadian PM Carney Strengthens European Ties Amid U.S. Tensions

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney embarked on his first foreign trip since taking office, meeting with King Charles III and French President Emmanuel Macron as he seeks to reinforce ties with European allies amid growing economic and political threats from U.S. President Donald Trump.

Carney Chooses Europe Over Washington

Carney, who succeeded Justin Trudeau last week, made a pointed decision to visit France and the United Kingdom rather than the United States, signaling Canada’s intent to diversify its alliances.

“It is more important than ever for Canada to reinforce its ties with reliable allies like France,” Carney said during a press conference with Macron in Paris. He described Canada as the “most European of non-European countries”, emphasizing the need to strengthen partnerships while maintaining constructive ties with Washington.

At Buckingham Palace, King Charles—who remains Canada’s head of state—welcomed Carney for discussions, while later in the day, the Canadian leader was set to meet U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Navigating Trump’s Trade War and Sovereignty Threats

Carney’s visit comes amid escalating tensions with Washington, as Trump’s administration imposes sweeping tariffs on Canadian imports, including a 25% tax on aluminum and steel. The tariffs have sparked fears of a Canadian recession, further compounded by Trump’s controversial rhetoric suggesting that Canada would be better off as the 51st U.S. state—a claim rejected by 90% of Canadians in recent polls.

Canada has retaliated with its own trade measures, but as its largest trading partner, the U.S. remains a critical economic force, receiving three-quarters of Canada’s exports.

Security and Sovereignty: A Unified Front with Europe

Carney’s discussions with Macron also centered on Ukraine, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to European security and opposing Russian aggression.

“We both stand for sovereignty and security, demonstrated by our unwavering support for Ukraine,” Carney said, referencing Canada’s military and financial aid to Kyiv. Macron echoed the sentiment, stressing that lasting peace must come with strong guarantees against future Russian threats.

Meanwhile, London and Paris are advancing plans for a coalition security force in Ukraine, seeking broader international backing.

Expanding Trade Beyond the U.S.

With tensions escalating in North America, Canada is looking to deepen economic ties with Europe. France is Canada’s 11th-largest trading partner, while the U.K. ranks third, and both nations are part of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and the European Union.

Additionally, Canada is a member of the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which now includes Britain, further solidifying its economic diversification strategy.

Reaffirming Arctic Sovereignty

Before returning to Ottawa, Carney will visit Iqaluit, Nunavut, Canada’s Arctic hub, to reaffirm Canadian sovereignty in the North. This move comes amid Trump’s past remarks about acquiring Greenland, a Danish autonomous territory, raising concerns about U.S. interest in Arctic expansion.

With trade wars, sovereignty disputes, and global security concerns shaping his early days in office, Carney’s diplomatic push signals Canada’s determination to assert its independence while forging stronger global alliances.