US President Donald Trump announced on Monday that Canada will roll out a $1.3 billion plan aimed at curbing the flow of fentanyl into the United States. In exchange, Trump stated he would pause tariffs on Canadian goods for 30 days following the plan’s implementation.
“Canada has agreed to secure our Northern Border and take decisive action to end the deadly scourge of fentanyl pouring into our country, which has claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans, while devastating families and communities,” Trump said on Truth Social.
He also referenced a statement from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, outlining the plan to bolster the border with new helicopters, technology, and personnel. The plan will enhance coordination with American authorities and allocate additional resources to combat fentanyl trafficking.
“As President, it is my responsibility to ensure the safety of all Americans, and I am doing just that,” Trump added. “I am pleased with this progress, and the tariffs announced on Saturday will be paused for 30 days while we work toward a potential final economic agreement with Canada. FAIRNESS FOR ALL!”
Prime Minister Trudeau confirmed the details of the border plan in a post on X, explaining that Canada would reinforce the border with new helicopters, technology, and nearly 10,000 personnel dedicated to border security. Trudeau also outlined new initiatives, including appointing a Fentanyl Czar, classifying cartels as terrorists, and launching a joint Canada-U.S. Strike Force to tackle organized crime, fentanyl trafficking, and money laundering. Additionally, Canada will invest $200 million into a new intelligence directive on organized crime and fentanyl.
“In response to President Trump’s concerns, we are implementing this comprehensive border security plan, and the proposed tariffs will be paused for at least 30 days while we collaborate,” Trudeau said in his post.
Earlier, President Trump had also announced the suspension of tariffs on Mexican goods for one month after a meeting with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. As part of the agreement, Mexico will deploy 10,000 soldiers to its border with the U.S. to address fentanyl trafficking and illegal migration, while the two countries continue negotiations.
The announcement of the U.S.-Mexico deal led to some calls within Canada for stronger border security. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre urged the Canadian government to deploy military forces, including troops, helicopters, and surveillance, to protect the Canada-U.S. trade relationship and address Trump’s concerns over drugs and migration.
