The future of the EU

Analysis: Trump’s 51st state could become von der Leyen’s 28th

Donald Trump wanted to make Canada the 51st US state. Instead, his hardline stance has widened the rift between the two neighbors, while Canada now stands on the threshold of becoming the EU’s first so-called associate member. This is according to an analysis by Luke Broadwater and Michael Crowley of *The New York Times*.

They write that Trump’s diplomacy largely revolves around irritating America’s closest allies as much as possible, and that while the EU’s overture to Canada may be primarily symbolic, the symbolism is powerful.

"At every turn, Trump’s bullying seems to have had the opposite effect," they write.

Writing for *The Guardian*, Lisa O’Carroll discusses the EU’s invitation to Canada with a hint of envy. She wonders whether this could serve as a model for the UK’s future relationship with the EU, or if the invitation should instead be viewed as a sign that the country is currently in the EU’s "deep freeze."

However, she believes the EU is acting not merely to send a signal to Washington—and possibly London—but also to benefit both itself and Ottawa.

"Canada possesses something the EU desperately needs: vast reserves of critical raw materials and rare earth metals. In turn, the EU has something Canada sorely needs: new markets for products the country can no longer sell to the US due to the trade war with Donald Trump."

Trump threatens EU with "heavy tariffs" following Canada invitation

US President Donald Trump is threatening to halt trade with the EU and impose punitive tariffs after the bloc opened the door to closer cooperation with Canada. This is reported by *Politico*, which describes the move as Trump’s "favorite threat." On Wednesday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that she welcomes Canada as an "associate member." This would entail deepened cooperation between the parties on issues regarding defense, technology, and energy.

The news did not sit well with Trump, who is in the midst of a trade war with Canada. According to the president, the neighboring country is a "terrible trade partner."

"If I deem it a hostile act at all, I will impose very high tariffs or stop trading with Europe in many areas," he continued.

However, Trump added that he could approve the arrangement if it is undertaken with "good intentions."

EU leader: Welcomes Canada as an associate member

The EU should lead the responsible development of AI, take greater responsibility for the climate, establish a security pact to address hybrid threats, and limit young people's use of social media. This was stated by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in her annual policy speech on Wednesday morning.

She also addressed Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney directly; he had been invited to attend the session in Parliament.

"We want to open the door for Canada as the first associate member of the EU," she said.

This would mean deepened cooperation between the EU and Canada on issues regarding defense, technology, and energy.