Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney speaks with the news media after he suspended trade negotiations with the United States, in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada August 22, 2026.
Chris Tanouye | Reuters
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Tuesday blasted the Trump administration for “doing memes” and “throwing shade” against his nation amid a growing trade war.
Carney’s comments came in response to a reporter’s question about Trump officials mocking Canada‘s military in social media posts and comments, and President Donald Trump renaming Lake Ontario “Lake America.”
The prime minister said there is a “positive opportunity that has always existed with the United States for a mutually beneficial trade deal that respects Canadian sovereignty” and which respects Canada’s right to protect and promote Quebec’s culture and the French language.
“When the Americans stop doing memes, stop throwing shade, stop trying to be tough and start being serious about having those discussions, we can have those discussions” about trade, Carney said.
“But look, it’s not constructive, but that’s their democracy.”
Carney also said, “It’s beneath their office,” when asked about Trump Cabinet secretaries insulting the Canadian military.
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