Canada’s Prime Minister Fires Back at Trump, Asserting National Autonomy After Davos Remarks

Upon returning from the World Economic Forum in Davos, where he drew attention for a speech critical of great power coercion, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney directly responded to Trump’s remarks, made during a separate address, that Canada survives “because of the United States.”

Carney dismissed that characterization, telling Canadian audiences that “Canada doesn’t live because of the United States. Canada thrives because we are Canadian,” underscoring Ottawa’s commitment to self‑determination and national values.

In his remarks, Carney highlighted the longstanding partnership between Canada and the U.S. in economic, security and cultural fields, but emphasized that Canada remains “master in our home” and responsible for shaping its own future.

The dispute flared after Trump also accused Canada of receiving numerous “freebies” from the U.S. and suggested Ottawa should be “grateful,” a comment that drew sharp rebuttals from Carney, who advocated Canada’s model of pluralistic democracy and diversity as strengths in an age of rising populism and nationalism.

Trump went further by revoking Carney’s invitation to join his newly launched “Board of Peace,” an international initiative unveiled in Davos, in a move seen as escalating tensions.

Carney stressed that Canada could serve as an example to the world, arguing that the future need not tilt toward authoritarianism and division but could instead be shaped by progress and justice.

The exchange has drawn international attention and domestic support for Carney’s stance; commentators and political figures have lauded his defense of sovereignty and Canadian identity in the face of provocative remarks from Washington.

The broader context includes an upcoming mandatory review of the Canada‑U.S.‑Mexico trade agreement (USMCA), amid ongoing debates over tariffs and economic relations between the two neighboring countries.