Smith Calls for Diplomacy, Warns Against Escalating Trade War

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith called for Canada to continue diplomatic efforts with US officials and avoid escalating the trade war. In an address, she stated that the US has 'no excuse for their behavior' but that brute force is not a viable option for Canada. Instead, Canadian officials should emphasize the destructive nature of tariffs and offer assistance once they are reversed.

Smith tempered her previous concerns about Ottawa's planned counter-tariffs, saying Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has taken steps to mitigate the impact on Canadian businesses. She urged fellow premiers and the federal government to take further action to protect Canadian businesses through tax reform measures and reducing internal trade barriers around alcohol.

Smith also reiterated her long-held stance that Alberta oil should be kept out of discussions on trade retaliation, warning that tariffs or export taxes would lead to job losses in her province, Ontario, and Quebec. She predicted a 'disastrous policy decision' if Canada were to cut off or tax Alberta's oil exports to the US.