U.S. Trade Secretary claims Canadian minister refused to admit sabotaging talks

Howard Lutnick told one outlet that when he questioned a Canadian minister about deliberately undermining the trade negotiations, the official responded that he was not permitted to answer. The sole Canadian participant in the talks was Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc, whose office has not provided a comment. The United States and Canada have each accused the other of causing the collapse of the talks aimed at easing tariffs on steel, aluminum, autos and softwood lumber.

U.S. Trade Representative Jameson Greer said Canada wanted more concessions than Washington was willing to grant, citing upcoming by-elections as a possible factor. Canadian Prime Minister Carney rejected claims that Ontario Premier Doug Ford influenced the outcome, emphasizing that trade decisions rest with the federal cabinet. The dispute highlights lingering tensions over tariff reductions and cultural protections.