On Friday night, Prime Minister Mark Carney instructed his negotiators to walk away from U.S. trade talks just before a midnight deadline. He announced that once 50 percent tariffs took effect on $20 billion worth of Canadian goods, Canada would immediately impose retaliatory tariffs “dollar for dollar” against the United States.

In a Saturday televised address, Mr. Carney declared that America’s attempt to break Canada would never succeed. By rejecting a deal with permanently baked-in tariffs, he chose a path no major U.S. ally has taken. While Britain and the European Union accepted smaller agreements, Canada now faces significant economic strain. Both sides now blame each other for last-minute unreasonable demands, including strict U.S. requests to restrict Canada’s independent trade relationships.

Acknowledging the heavy toll on local businesses and workers, Mr. Carney promised extensive government support while preparing retaliatory measures for Sept. 8. Despite potential costs to American consumers and fierce political backlash, he remains resolved to reduce reliance on Washington. Since taking office, he has advanced a long-term strategy designed to help Canada survive and ultimately thrive independently.