The 'anti-Trump' numbers man who may force the UK to take a side

Mark Carney has recently taken on a significant role as the Prime Minister of Canada, and this is particularly important given the current tensions between Canada and the United States. The US, under President Donald Trump, has been making decisions that many Canadians find troubling. In his acceptance speech, Carney did not hold back in expressing his disapproval of Trump’s policies, stating that the US president has brought 'dark days' and that Canada can no longer trust the United States. He expressed pride in Canadians who are resisting American influence by choosing not to buy American products. Carney has made it clear that Canada will maintain its retaliatory tariffs on American goods until the US shows Canada the respect it deserves. He firmly believes that Canada must stand strong and not allow the US to dictate its actions. Carney has also emphasized that Canada will never become part of the United States, stating, 'The Americans want our resources, our land, our water, our country… Canada will never be part of America in any way, shape or form. ' This statement highlights his commitment to protecting Canada’s sovereignty. Behind the scenes, Carney has been advocating for a strong response to Trump’s actions. He has dismissed Trump’s claims that Canada is involved in the fentanyl trade and has ridiculed the idea that Canada is taking advantage of the US. Carney explained that Canada’s trade deficit is primarily due to its oil exports and suggested that perhaps Canada should ask the US for a subsidy on oil. Carney’s rise to the position of Prime Minister follows a trend of former central bankers becoming leaders of their countries, similar to former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi. This is a rare path, but it may be well-timed given the current situation where the US has suggested using economic power to exert control over Canada. Carney has experience dealing with various economic crises, including the banking crash, the eurozone crisis, and the economic challenges posed by Brexit and the pandemic. He has also participated in G20 meetings at the leader level, where he has interacted with Trump and other world leaders. Carney believes that Trump only respects those who demonstrate strength. He has expressed skepticism about any attempts to appease Trump, stating, 'good luck with that. ' Carney plans to focus on further retaliatory tariffs to address inflation and interest rate increases in Canada, particularly in relation to the US. With a Canadian election expected by October, Carney may choose to call for an earlier election. Depending on the timing, he is set to host Trump in Canada during the G7 Summit in June. Carney’s leadership raises important questions for the UK. On one hand, a more assertive approach from a G7 ally contrasts with the UK’s close relationship with the White House. On the other hand, Carney has indicated a desire to diversify trade towards 'more reliable' partners, which could include the UK and the European Union. This shift could mean that Canada might consider sending its subsidized energy to Europe instead of the US. The broader strategic implication is that Carney’s background suggests a focus on international cooperation and the defense of the existing multilateral system. He believes that Canada can 'stand on its own feet' but also sees the value in forming a more cohesive international alliance to influence Congress and those skeptical of tariffs in the Trump administration. Canada’s new leadership anticipates support from its Commonwealth ally, the UK. After our recent interview, Carney pointed to a portrait of King Charles in his office, signaling that Canada and the UK should align in this new global landscape.