“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” ~ Edmund Burke
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Trump’s Drastic Actions and Their Impact on Canada
Since becoming President of the United States, Donald Trump has introduced several sweeping measures. His executive orders span a wide array of issues, including trade, immigration, U.S. foreign aid, demographic policies, civil rights, and federal employment. Some of these measures have had an immediate impact, while others are largely symbolic or face legal challenges. However, Canadians are most concerned about his tariff threats, which, if enforced, could deal a severe blow to the economy and place hundreds of thousands of jobs in jeopardy.
A History of U.S. Tariffs and Their Consequences
The United States has a long-standing practice of imposing sanctions and tariffs on other nations. For example, U.S. sanctions against Cuba have persisted since the 1960s. Despite the rationale provided for these actions, Cuba—a small nation of 11 million people, significantly smaller in both landmass and economic power—has managed to endure for more than six decades. In contrast, the tariffs aimed at Canada lack solid justification. Disregarding diplomatic protocols, Trump risks jeopardizing the historically strong ties between the two countries. Canada and the U.S. share the world’s longest undefended border, spanning over 8,890 kilometers. One of the justifications cited for the tariffs is Canada’s alleged failure to curb illegal immigration into the U.S. However, compared to the 1.5 million people crossing the U.S. southern border in 2024, Canada’s estimated figure of fewer than 25,000 is minimal. This suggests that the tariff threats are not based on genuine concerns but rather on perceived economic competition.
Trump’s Approach: Intimidation Over Diplomacy
Trump appears to believe that America’s military and economic strength grants him the authority to pressure and belittle other nations. His statements referring to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as a “governor” and calling Canada the “51st state” illustrate his lack of diplomatic courtesy and respect. Additionally, his ambitions to take control of Greenland and the Panama Canal reflect a pattern of overreach. Leaders like Trump—and figures such as Russian President Vladimir Putin, who annexed Crimea and initiated a war with Ukraine—believe their power shields them from accountability.
Historical Lessons: The Fall of Authoritarian Leaders
History has repeatedly demonstrated that leaders who act against the interests of their people eventually face repercussions. Martin Luther King, Jr. wisely said, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” Change may take time, but it is inevitable. Sri Lanka provides a relevant example. In November 2019, Gotabaya Rajapaksa won the presidency with an overwhelming mandate. His military credentials and political influence made him seem invincible, with his family dominating key government positions and financial resources. However, his administration collapsed within three years due to economic mismanagement and discriminatory policies. The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic crisis in 2022 led to widespread protests, forcing him to flee the country. By 2024, his party’s influence had significantly dwindled, proving that leaders who fail their people ultimately fall from grace.
Canada Must Take a Stand
Trump may currently be leveraging his second term to solidify his popularity through bold actions, but such strategies rarely endure. His administration, dominated by wealthy elites, primarily serves its own interests rather than those of ordinary citizens. Despite their claims to represent the people, their actions suggest otherwise.
Canada must respond to Trump’s unfounded threats with resilience and unity. We are not to be underestimated. As the second-largest country in the world and one of the top ten economies, Canada possesses the strength and capability to protect its national interests. It is imperative that we stand our ground and oppose unjust policies with determination and resolve.
This article is written by Arun Arokianathan, currently a BEMC cohort. He is an Asian Journalism Fellow, Chevening SAJP Fellow, and IVLP Alumnus. To contact: [email protected]
