US President-elect Donald Trump has once again stirred controversy by suggesting Canada merge with the US, hours after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation.
"Many people in Canada love being the 51st state. The US can no longer suffer from the massive trade deficits and subsidies that Canada needs to survive. Justin Trudeau knew this and resigned," Trump said on social media Truth Social.
Earlier, Trudeau announced his resignation amid growing discontent within his party and low public approval ratings, raising concerns about his ability to win the upcoming election against a growing conservative opposition.
Trump argued that a U.S.-Canada union would eliminate trade barriers and reduce taxes for Canadians.
"If Canada joined the US, there would be no tariffs, taxes would be greatly reduced, and they would be completely safe from the threat of Russian and Chinese ships constantly surrounding them," Trump said.
Further, the future US president described his vision for the possible unification, emphasizing "what a great nation it would be."
Since his victory in the November election, Trump has referred to Canada as the "51st state."
Earlier, Trump has also threatened to impose a 25 percent tariff on Canadian imports if Canada does not take steps to significantly reduce drugs and illegal immigrants crossing into the U.S. Trump similarly threatened Mexico with tariffs.