The development came hours after Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum reached a similar deal with Trump
U.S. President Donald Trump has agreed to pause tariffs on Canada for 30 days after talking with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in the afternoon of Feb. 3.
The agreement between the two leaders entails Canada appointing a “fentanyl czar” and designating drug cartels as terrorist organizations, as well as committing C$200 million (US$139 million) for intelligence operations to combat fentanyl.
“Canada has agreed to ensure we have a secure Northern Border, and to finally end the deadly scourge of drugs like Fentanyl that have been pouring into our Country, killing hundreds of thousands of Americans, while destroying their families and communities all across our Country,” Trump said on Truth Social after his call with Trudeau.
In announcing the agreement on social media, Trudeau noted Canada’s previously announced C$1.3 billion (US$900 million) plan to boost border security, while saying around 10,000 frontline personnel will be working to protect the border.
The development came hours after Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum reached a similar deal with Trump, with the two agreeing to pause tariffs for 30 days while Mexico sends 10,000 troops to the border to stop the flow of fentanyl.
“I just had a good call with President Trump,” Trudeau said.
“Canada is making new commitments to appoint a Fentanyl Czar, we will list cartels as terrorists, ensure 24/7 eyes on the border, launch a Canada- U.S. Joint Strike Force to combat organized crime, fentanyl and money laundering. I have also signed a new intelligence directive on organized crime and fentanyl and we will be backing it with $200 million.”
Trudeau highlighted Ottawa’s previously announced border security plan, which includes the creation of a new North American task force targeting organized crime and drug trafficking, and new funding for helicopters and drones.
“I am very pleased with this initial outcome, and the Tariffs announced on Saturday will be paused for a 30 day period to see whether or not a final Economic deal with Canada can be structured. FAIRNESS FOR ALL!” Trump said.
“As President, it is my responsibility to ensure the safety of ALL Americans, and I am doing just that.”
By Omid Ghoreishi and Matthew Horwood
