In a surprising move, US President Donald Trump announced the suspension of trade negotiations with Canada on Thursday night, citing a controversial advertisement by the Ontario government. The ad featured archival footage of former US President Ronald Reagan’s 1987 speech criticizing tariffs, which Trump labeled as “fraudulent” and “fake.” The decision has sparked confusion and concern among analysts, given the seemingly positive progress in prior discussions. Adam Chapnick, a professor at the Canadian Forces College, described the move as “unanticipated but not entirely surprising,” noting the Trump administration’s unpredictable trade policies over the past year. Trump claimed the ad was an attempt to interfere with US judicial decisions, emphasizing that tariffs are crucial to national security and the economy. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who recently set a goal to double Canada’s non-US exports in the next decade, expressed concerns over the chilling effect of US tariffs on investment. He highlighted the vulnerability of industries like autos, steel, and lumber, which have been heavily impacted by the trade tensions. Ontario Premier Doug Ford later announced the withdrawal of the ad, stating it was a step to facilitate the resumption of trade talks. Chapnick emphasized that while the Canadian government aims to reduce reliance on the US, the private sector will ultimately determine the success of this economic shift.