# Canada and EU defy Trump with closer alliance

> Mark Carney backs EU associate membership for Canada despite US threats of tariffs and trade retaliation.
- Title: Canada and EU defy Trump with closer alliance · the Guardian
- Summary: Mark Carney backs EU associate membership for Canada despite US threats of tariffs and trade retaliation. Canada is moving closer to Europe as Trump…
- Keywords: canada, european union, mark carney, donald trump, associate membership, tariffs, trade, us foreign policy, eu expansion, news, world, defy
- Source: the Guardian — https://theguardian.com/news/audio/2026/sep/17/taking-on-trump-canada-and-eu-forge-closer-ties-the-latest
- Published: 2026-09-17T18:22:14+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: canada, european union, mark carney, donald trump, associate membership, tariffs, trade, us foreign policy, eu expansion, news, world
## Canada seeks EU associate status
The European Union has proposed making Canada its first associate member, a move that would deepen political and economic ties between the bloc and North America.
## Trump threatens serious retaliation
Donald Trump warned that Washington could impose very serious tariffs or halt trade entirely if the EU proceeds with the plan.
## Carney defies Trump in parliament
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered a defiant speech to the European Parliament, calling for deep cooperation between Canada and Europe.
## Canadians back the EU partnership
Polling shows an overwhelming majority of Canadians support closer ties with Europe, giving Carney political cover for the move.
## A shift in North American politics
The proposal signals Canada's willingness to diversify its relationships away from the US, even as Trump threatens economic consequences.
## Key takeaway

Canada is moving closer to Europe as Trump threatens economic consequences, signaling a shift in North American geopolitics.