Trudeau government promises ‘visible and muscular’ enforcement of border security after Trump tariff threat

Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc, who attended the dinner alongside Trudeau, Trump, and other officials, confirmed in an interview with the CBC that “we got a mutual understanding of what they’re concerned about in terms of border security measures.” LeBlanc revealed that Canada plans “in the coming days or weeks” to announce that it will be adding more resources to its border, including drones, helicopters, and more staff.

The leaders reportedly discussed a range of issues, including drug trafficking, and the movement of illegal immigrants. Trump has been vocal about his intent to pressure both Canada and Mexico to tighten border controls. Last Monday, Trump reiterated his position on Truth Social, threatening tariffs if action is not taken.

“On January 20th, as one of my many first Executive Orders, I will sign all necessary documents to charge Mexico and Canada a 25% Tariff on ALL products coming into the United States, and its ridiculous Open Borders,” Trump posted. “This Tariff will remain in effect until such time as Drugs, in particular Fentanyl, and all Illegal Aliens stop this Invasion of our Country!”

LeBlanc also met with Trump’s nominee for Commerce Secretary, Howard Lutnick, to discuss trade and border issues, with plans for further discussions in the near future.

“It was a very warm, cordial meeting, and I saw very much the mutual respect and warmth between the two leaders,” Leblanc said in regards to Friday’s Mar-a-Lago dinner.

Following the meeting, Trump posted on Saturday that his conversation with Trudeau was “very productive” and noted that the Canadian prime minister “has made a commitment to work with us” to combat the flow of illegal drugs entering the US through the border.