US president blames Canada for hazardous air as wildfires rage across Ontario and tensions rise between the neighbours
US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose new tariffs on Canada, accusing the country of failing to manage its forests as wildfire smoke continues to blanket large parts of the northern United States.
The warning comes as hundreds of active wildfires continue burning across Canada, sending thick smoke into several US states and prompting hazardous air quality alerts affecting millions of people.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed the United States was being overwhelmed by “filthy, polluted and unhealthy air” because of what he described as Canada’s “willful negligence.” He said he planned to speak with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to demand an explanation and suggested additional tariffs could be introduced if the situation was not addressed.
According to the Canadian Wildland Fire Information System, there are approximately 888 active wildfires across the country, with more than 190 burning in Ontario alone. Many of the fires remain out of control despite large-scale firefighting efforts.
Trump accused Canada of failing to properly maintain its forests and brush, while several Republican lawmakers echoed similar concerns, arguing that Canadian authorities had not done enough to reduce wildfire risks.
The lawmakers said they were frustrated after experiencing repeated smoke events in recent years and warned that the US could consider taking a more direct role in cross-border wildfire prevention if Canada failed to act.
Canadian leaders quickly rejected the criticism.
Prime Minister Mark Carney said climate change is a shared global challenge and stressed that both countries have a responsibility to work together rather than assign blame.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford also responded, reminding US officials that Canada has repeatedly sent firefighters and emergency crews to assist the United States during major disasters, including California wildfires and hurricanes.
“Instead of complaining, send help,” Ford said, urging American lawmakers to support ongoing firefighting operations rather than criticise Canada’s response.
Canadian officials said more than 150 fire crews, supported by over 80 water bombers and helicopters, are battling the blazes across Ontario. Since 2018, the province has invested more than one billion dollars in wildfire prevention and emergency response.
Scientists say the causes of the fires are far more complex than poor forest management alone.
Experts point to prolonged hot weather, below-average rainfall, lightning strikes and the growing effects of climate change as major factors contributing to this year’s severe wildfire season.
They also note that many of the fires are burning in remote northern forests where they are extremely difficult to detect and contain before spreading rapidly.
The smoke has significantly affected air quality across several US states, including Minnesota, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York. On Friday, Detroit recorded the worst air quality in the world, while Chicago, Washington DC and New York also ranked among the most polluted cities globally.
Poor visibility has disrupted flights, forced outdoor events to be cancelled and prompted health officials to advise residents to remain indoors.
Meanwhile, thousands of Canadians have also been affected. Entire communities in northern Ontario have been evacuated after fast-moving fires destroyed homes and infrastructure.
Despite the growing political tensions, both governments remain in communication as firefighters continue working to contain one of Canada’s most severe wildfire seasons in recent years.
