With the Canadian Government relenting on the Digital Services Tax, the Trump Administration has taken a triumphal tone, speaking of Canada as a defeated adversary.
Following Canada’s decision to withdraw the Digital Services Tax to continue trade negotiations with the United States, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt spoke of Canada as a defeated adversary:
Notice the deliberate effort to be demeaning and to place Canada below the U.S. Rather than speak of the change as a good-faith gesture after the U.S., not Canada, walked away from negotiations, the White House has chosen to brag and gloat.
This kind of tone is exactly why Canada must reduce its dependence on the United States and seek deeper ties to Europe.
Being almost fully dependent on trade with the United States leaves us vulnerable to extortionary tactics, broken trade deals, and threats of economic subjugation.
Closer ties with the European Union, comprising countries that are far more respectful of Canadian sovereignty and also seek to reduce their dependence on the U.S., is a smart move.
Spencer Fernando
Image – Twitter
I write for a Canada that defends itself, governs itself, builds boldly, and stands with its democratic friends. If you want that case made week after week, support the work. For $8 a month on Patreon, you get the full-length essays behind these short pieces, and the complete archive.