"They've been exploiting us for decades" Trump slams Canada, claims U.S. needs nothing from Canada

Former U.S. President Donald Trump posted two consecutive messages on Truth Social on August 30 (Eastern Time), intensifying his criticism of Canada and accusing the long-standing ally of "exploiting the United States for decades." He defended his tariff policies and called on Canadian companies doing business in the U.S. to immediately relocate their operations within American borders.

In his first post on Sunday afternoon, Trump credited tariff measures with strengthening the U.S. auto industry and preserving American manufacturing plants. He wrote, "When I announced my 2024 presidential run, Ford was preparing to close its large Detroit plant." Trump claimed the plant is now "operating 24 hours a day" and has become "one of the most profitable auto plants in the world."

Trump stated: "Ford, General Motors, and other automakers have many similar examples. I have revitalized, even saved, the American auto industry. All of this is because of the tariff policies I pushed."

He then turned his criticism toward Canada, describing the U.S. ally as one of the "worst trade violators." He wrote: "One of the worst abusers is Canada. I don't want Canadian cars, Canadian parts, or anything from Canada. They've exploited us for decades, and this must stop."

He continued: "This should have been handled by previous presidents, just as Iran should have been stopped. They want to be treated like a state, but they're not. I deal with leaders from many countries, but I find Canada the worst. They no longer enjoy special privileges!"

Minutes later, Trump issued a second post, directly urging Canadian companies doing business with the U.S. to move operations to America. He wrote: "Let all Canadian companies doing business with the U.S. immediately move to the U.S. Many of these companies left years ago due to foolish U.S. leadership. When you move back, you won't have to pay tariffs!"

Trump's remarks come amid escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada. The U.S. has imposed a 50% tariff on approximately $20 billion worth of Canadian goods, effective August 22, after trade negotiations collapsed. According to Reuters, Canada has announced retaliatory tariffs on about $20 billion worth of U.S. imports, set to take effect on September 8.