Canada’s outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday spoke to California governor Gavin Newsom in a telephonic exchange over the raging wildfire in Los Angeles which claimed 11 lives.
After the conversation, Trudeau in a social media post on X, said, “I spoke with Gavin Newsom last night. We both know that Canada and the United States are more than just neighbours. We’re friends — especially when times get tough.”
“California’s always had our back when we battle wildfires up north. Now, Canada’s got yours,” he added.
The exchange came amid the ongoing feud between Donald Trump and Trudeau after the incoming US President suggested using “economic force” to bring Canada into US, a statement that was met with sharp condemnation from Trudeau.
Trump further emphasised the financial burden the US shoulders in terms of protecting Canada, arguing that the US should no longer financially support its northern neighbor. “I love the Canadian people, they’re great. But we’re spending hundreds of billions a year to protect it,” Trump stated, adding that the US should no longer rely on Canada’s trade, including its cars and lumber.
In response, Trudeau, who had resigned as the Canadian prime minister, sharply rejected Trump’s suggestions.
Taking to social media platform X, he remarked, “There isn’t a snowball’s chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States.” Trudeau also emphasized the importance of the longstanding bilateral relationship between the two countries, noting that workers and communities in both nations benefit from their close ties in trade and security.
Meanwhile, Trump has also blamed California governor Gavin Newsom for burning down one of the best and most beautiful parts of the the America and demanded for his resignation.
On the Truth Social, Trump said that it was all Newsom’s fault for turning the best and most beautiful parts of the US into ashes.
“One of the best and most beautiful parts of the United States of America is burning down to the ground. It’s ashes, and Gavin Newscom should resign. This is all his fault!!!” Trump said in a post.
Trump and Newsom have clashed bitterly in the past, including over fire prevention, environmental policies, climate change, green vehicles and immigration.
Trump’s frustration stems from the severe impact of the wildfires, which have burned thousands of acres, destroyed homes, and forced tens of thousands of residents to evacuate. Many areas, including Malibu and Los Angeles, have been hit hard, with water shortages making it even more difficult for firefighters to battle the blazes.
The wildfires, which started on Tuesday, have now killed 11 people and destroyed more than 10,000 structures. Winds exceeding 100 miles per hour have helped spread the fire, causing new fronts to ignite. In the Los Angeles area, luxury homes and beachside properties have been reduced to ashes, while residents flee the advancing flames.
