Donald Trump is already taking credit for Ottawa’s significant investments to secure the border, a victory obtained against a “difficulty” Justin Trudeau, the president-elect welcomes.
• Also read: Trump’s allusions to a 51st state: “Canadians should be deeply shocked,” says Jean Charest
• Also read: Trump once again raises the idea of making Canada the 51st American state
• Also read: New air detachment and artificial intelligence: this is what the federal plan for the border contains
“President Trump secures the border while he is not even in office yet”: this is the title of a short press release published by the communications services of Mr. Trump, who must take power in 33 days .
This message follows the announcement by the Trudeau government on Tuesday of a $1.3 billion plan over 5 years to increase controls at the Canada-US border.
This is proof that the tariff “ultimatum” launched by Mr. Trump after his “decisive” victory last month has already borne fruit, argues the Trump camp.
“It didn’t take long for Canada to heed President Trump’s warning,” it reads.
“Faced with outcry among his own citizens, embattled Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has just announced a billion-dollar plan to dramatically improve border security and increase border patrols to stem the “illegal immigration, human trafficking and deadly drugs entering the United States.”
On the Mexican side, the president-elect welcomes the largest seizure of fentanyl reported in the country’s history on December 5.
“In just six weeks, President Trump has made major progress in advancing international peace, propelling economic growth, dismantling divisive social programs, and supporting American investment.”
The leader of the Republicans is increasing his mockery towards Canada. Last night, he complained again about the so-called “subsidies” granted by the United States to Canada in reference to the trade balance between the two countries.
“Many Canadians want Canada to become the 51st state. They would save massively on taxes and military protection. I think it’s a great idea. 51st State!!!,” Mr. Trump wrote.
These inopportune comments come in a context where Justin Trudeau’s leadership is hanging by a thread. The resounding departure of his right-hand woman in Finance, Chrystia Freeland, dealt a potentially fatal blow to the Prime Minister.
The Minister of Public Safety, Dominic LeBlanc, personal friend of Justin Trudeau, took over at Finance. Today he combines the two ministries, in addition to taking care of relations with the provinces.
He was the one who announced yesterday the federal plan for the border focused on combating the fentanyl trade and illegal crossings. The plan includes the purchase of drones, biochemical surveillance technologies and the establishment of a Canada-US police force to tackle cross-border crime.
Justin Trudeau has not spoken to the media since last week and has canceled all his end-of-year interviews.
