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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen backed a plan that could see Canada become an 'associate member' of the European Union, deepening EU-Canada ties. US President Donald Trump reacted forcefully, calling the move a potential 'hostile act' and threatening heavy tariffs against both the EU and Canada in response. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has since outlined broader ambitions for 'middle powers' to build a new economic alliance, floating stronger ties with the EU as part of efforts to diversify Canada's trade relationships away from reliance on the United States. The move underscores how Trump's tariff threats are pushing Ottawa and Brussels toward closer cooperation despite Washington's objections.