May 15, 2025: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney publicly criticized the United Kingdom’s decision to extend a second state visit invitation to former U.S. President Donald Trump, saying Canadians were “not impressed” by the gesture. The remark came during a joint appearance with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London following Carney’s bilateral meetings on trade and climate cooperation.

Diplomatic Friction Over Optics and Timing

Carney’s comments, made during a press conference outside 10 Downing Street, reflect mounting discomfort in Ottawa over the perceived normalization of Trump’s leadership amid ongoing trade disputes and political tensions between the U.S. and Canada.

The Prime Minister said the invitation “cuts across values Canadians have repeatedly defended—democracy, decency, and responsible leadership,” adding that the symbolism of such a visit “sends the wrong message at the wrong time.”

While diplomatic protocol allows nations to invite foreign leaders at their discretion, Carney noted that public opinion in Canada is firmly opposed to honoring Trump with a ceremonial visit, especially as bilateral tensions escalate over tariffs and sovereignty rhetoric.

U.S.–Canada Tensions Amplify Reaction

The timing of the UK’s invitation coincides with renewed hostilities between Ottawa and Washington over trade restrictions, border policies, and inflammatory statements by President Trump, who recently suggested Canada should consider becoming the “51st U.S. state”—a comment dismissed as “provocative and unserious” by Canadian officials.

Carney’s decision publicly critiquing a close ally’s diplomatic move is unusual but not unprecedented. His remarks may also serve a dual domestic purpose: asserting Canadian sovereignty and distancing the current administration from American political currents that remain unpopular among Canadian voters.

UK Response Muted

The British government has not formally responded to Carney’s remarks. Prime Minister Starmer declined to elaborate when asked whether Trump’s visit would proceed as planned, stating only that the UK “maintains dialogue with all major allies.”

The situation highlights a growing divergence among Western allies on handling former U.S. leadership figures in international diplomacy.