On October 24, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced the termination of all ongoing trade negotiations with Canada. The decision, publicized in a statement from the White House, came after a contentious television advertisement aired in Ontario, Canada. Sponsored by Premier Doug Ford’s provincial government, the ad criticized Trump’s use of tariffs and reportedly cost around C$75 million (about US$54 million).

The ad in question featured edited segments from former U.S. President Ronald Reagan’s 1987 radio address, presenting him as a vocal opponent of tariffs. Trump denounced the advertisement as "fake," arguing it misrepresented Reagan’s actual views and accused Ontario of attempting to influence an impending U.S. Supreme Court decision on presidential authority over tariffs. Trade policy and the president’s tariff powers have been a cornerstone of Trump’s economic agenda since he assumed office for a second term.

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation also condemned the use of Reagan’s speech, stating that the advertisement was unauthorized and provided misleading context. While Reagan did support free trade in his 1987 remarks, historical records show he imposed tariffs under certain circumstances, complicating the ad's message and its purported intent.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford initially defended the campaign, saying its aim was to “spark a debate” about the economic impact of tariffs, which have been a sticking point in U.S.-Canada relations. However, in an effort to lower tensions and entice Washington back to the negotiation table, Ford announced he would pause the controversial ad campaign starting the following Monday, allowing it to continue airing through the weekend, including prominent broadcasts during the World Series. (AP News)

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, responding to Trump’s termination of talks, reiterated Canada’s willingness to resume negotiations. Carney emphasized the importance of maintaining constructive dialogue and stressed that both the U.S. and Canada benefit economically from strong trade relations. He also highlighted Canada’s ongoing efforts to diversify its export markets amid uncertainty in U.S. policy direction. (Reuters)

The controversy over the television ad and the abrupt halt to trade negotiations come at a time of already heightened tension between the two nations. Key industries such as steel, aluminum, and automotive manufacturing have suffered significant job losses in both countries due to the effects of U.S.-imposed tariffs. The incident underscores the fragility of the relationship and the broad economic implications that policy disputes can have for millions of workers on both sides of the border. (Time)

As of now, trade talks remain suspended, with any resumption contingent on the resolution of the advertising dispute and ongoing court deliberations regarding presidential tariff authority. Both governments, however, have expressed hope that diplomatic engagement can eventually restore the pathway to a stable and mutually beneficial trade partnership.

For further coverage and updates, see the original article and related reports from AP News and Time.