U.S. President Donald Trump has ended trade talks with Canada after denouncing a political ad that used Ronald Reagan’s voice to criticise tariffs.
The ad, produced by Ontario’s provincial government, reignited tensions between both countries as they negotiate new steel and aluminium trade terms.
The controversy began when Ontario aired an ad using edited clips from Reagan’s 1987 radio address. In it, the late U.S. president warned that tariffs trigger “trade wars” and destroy jobs. The message appeared to challenge Trump’s tariff-heavy policy.
Trump called the video “fraudulent” and said Canada’s behaviour was “egregious”. In a Truth Social post, he wrote, “All trade negotiations with Canada are hereby terminated.” He also accused Ottawa of trying to influence the U.S. Supreme Court ahead of next month’s tariff hearings.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation condemned the ad, saying the clips were “selectively edited” and used without permission. “It distorts Reagan’s real beliefs,” the Foundation stated.
Experts noted that while Reagan sometimes approved limited tariffs, he consistently defended open markets and global trade.
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Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has not publicly commented on Trump’s decision. Since taking office, Carney has tried to rebuild trade ties by removing several retaliatory tariffs.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford admitted the ad was provocative. “I heard the president saw it. I’m sure he wasn’t too happy,” Ford said earlier this week.
Trump’s tariffs are now the highest since the 1930s. They cover steel, aluminium, and autos, hitting major Canadian exports. Economists warn that the escalating dispute could slow investment and disrupt North American supply chains.
Meanwhile, Canada has cut tariff-free import quotas for General Motors and Stellantis after both firms reduced local production. Carney said Canada “will not allow unfair U.S. access” if talks fail.
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The latest fallout comes months before the 2026 review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Analysts say continued hostility could harm economic recovery across the region.
Both countries may now face pressure to de-escalate. Trade experts urge Washington and Ottawa to return to talks before the damage becomes permanent.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
