US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose new tariffs on Canada, accusing the country of "willful negligence" after wildfire smoke from hundreds of blazes blanketed northern US cities in hazardous air. The remarks, posted on Truth Social, come as 888 active fires burn across Canada, with 190 in Ontario alone, many out of control.
Trump blames Canada for 'filthy air' as US lawmakers demand action
Trump claimed the US was being "unnecessarily invaded by filthy, polluted, and unhealthy air" and vowed to call Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to demand an explanation. He alleged Canada had failed to properly maintain its forests and brush, while fellow Republicans revived calls to make Canada the 51st US state—a proposal that has drawn backlash from Canadians.
US lawmakers John James, John Moolenaar, Jack Bergman, and Lisa McClain issued an open letter stating their "patience has run out," warning the US could intervene in cross-border wildfire protection if Canada did not act. They cited "chronic under-investment in forest thinning, fuel reduction, and prescribed burns" as unresolved issues.
Canada rejects blame, cites climate change and existing cooperation
Ontario Premier Doug Ford countered that Canada had previously aided the US in battling wildfires and hurricanes, urging American officials to "send support, send help" rather than complain. Prime Minister Carney emphasized that climate change is a shared responsibility, noting Canada’s C$12bn investment in forest sustainability and fire prevention since 2018.
Canada’s emergency management minister highlighted longstanding bilateral agreements, including a 1982 reciprocal firefighting pact and a 2025 G7 summit assistance deal. Meanwhile, scientists stressed that wildfires are driven by climate change, hotter conditions, and lightning, with smoke crossing borders regardless of national forest management policies.
Wildfire smoke triggers health alerts and evacuations
Nearly 3 million hectares have burned in Canada this year, sending smoke as far as New York, Detroit, and Washington DC—where air quality ranked among the world’s worst. Authorities issued "hazardous" air quality alerts, canceling outdoor events and advising residents to stay indoors. In northern Ontario, entire communities, including the Namaygoosisagagun First Nation, were evacuated after fires reduced homes to ashes.
Forecasters predict rain may improve conditions before Sunday’s World Cup final in New Jersey, where Trump is expected to attend. Officials continue monitoring the situation, though no formal meetings with FIFA have been scheduled.
