标签： North America

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has reaffirmed his stance on a controversial anti-tariff advertisement aired in the United States, which featured former President Ronald Reagan and drew sharp criticism from President Donald Trump. Ford declared that the ad, which has reportedly garnered one billion views, successfully sparked a global conversation about tariffs. The advertisement, funded by the Ontario government, included excerpts from Reagan’s 1987 radio address, emphasizing that tariffs ‘hurt every American.’

President Trump responded by suspending trade talks with Canada and announcing an additional 10% tariff on Canadian goods, though specifics on its implementation remain unclear. Trump dismissed the ad as ‘fraudulent’ and accused Canada of attempting to influence an upcoming US Supreme Court case regarding the legality of his tariffs on multiple countries, including Canada, Mexico, and China.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who is currently attending the ASEAN summit in Asia alongside Trump, revealed that the two nations were nearing a trade agreement before the ad disrupted negotiations. Carney refrained from directly criticizing Ford but emphasized that trade negotiations fall under federal jurisdiction.

Ford, however, remained defiant, stating that the ad was ‘the most successful in the history of North America’ and that he would not back down in the face of Trump’s attacks. The premier also disclosed that Carney and his chief of staff had reviewed the ad prior to its release. Support for Ford has emerged from various Canadian politicians, including Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown and British Columbia Premier David Eby, who plans to launch his own anti-tariff campaign targeting US lumber tariffs.

The escalating tensions highlight the fragile state of US-Canada trade relations, with the US already imposing a 35% tariff on Canadian goods, though most are exempt under existing agreements. Specific sectors, such as steel, aluminum, and automobiles, face even higher tariffs. As the dispute unfolds, the international community watches closely, with the ad serving as a focal point in the broader debate over trade policies and their global implications.

British journalist and media commentator Sami Hamdi, known for his vocal criticism of Israel, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) over the weekend. Hamdi, who was on a speaking tour in the U.S., had his visa revoked and is currently in ICE custody pending removal from the country. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the State Department allege that Hamdi supports terrorism and poses a threat to national security. However, the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) contends that Hamdi is being politically targeted for his views, violating his free speech rights. CAIR has called for his immediate release, stating that his detention is unjust and influenced by anti-Muslim sentiment. Hamdi’s arrest follows accusations from far-right activist Laura Loomer, who claimed he supports terrorist organizations. This incident is part of a broader pattern of visa revocations targeting critics of Israel’s actions in Gaza, including the recent case of pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil.

Former President Donald Trump has reignited discussions about the possibility of a third presidential term, despite constitutional limitations. Trump, who has not ruled out the idea, has already begun selling ‘Trump 2028’ caps through his organization, signaling his interest in the 2028 election. The U.S. Constitution, however, explicitly limits presidents to two terms, a rule established by the 22nd Amendment in 1951. Trump’s supporters, including former strategist Steve Bannon, have suggested potential loopholes, such as running as a vice-presidential candidate and then succeeding to the presidency. Trump himself has remained ambiguous, stating he ‘hasn’t really thought about it’ but acknowledging his strong poll numbers. Critics, including Democrats and some Republicans, have expressed deep concerns, labeling the idea as an attempt to undermine democracy. Legal experts argue that there are no credible legal avenues for a third term, and any attempt to change the Constitution would face significant political and legal hurdles. The debate continues as Trump’s merchandise and rhetoric keep the possibility in the public eye.

Former US President Donald Trump has sparked fresh speculation about his political future, hinting at the possibility of a third presidential term while dismissing the idea of running as vice-president in 2028. During his recent trip to Asia, Trump addressed reporters, labeling the vice-presidential suggestion as ‘too cute’ and ‘not right.’ Although he did not elaborate on how he might pursue another term, Trump emphasized his strong poll numbers and expressed enthusiasm for the idea. Last week, former Trump strategist Steve Bannon claimed a ‘plan’ was in place to secure Trump’s return to the White House in 2028. However, the 22nd Amendment of the US Constitution prohibits presidents from serving more than two terms, making such a move legally challenging. Trump also highlighted potential successors, including Vice-President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, whom he described as ‘unstoppable.’ Meanwhile, Democrats like California Governor Gavin Newsom and former Vice-President Kamala Harris have signaled their interest in the 2028 presidential race. Trump’s remarks continue to fuel debates about his political ambitions and the future of US leadership.