President Trump and Justin Trudeau hold call about Ukraine, border security after weeks of tension

President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke on Saturday, covering topics including the war in Ukraine and U.S. border security.

According to a White House statement released that evening, the call began with a discussion about the 4 Nations Face-Off hockey tournament, which Canada won. Both leaders praised their respective teams for their strong performances in the championship.

"The conversation then shifted to Monday’s upcoming G7 call, which marks the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine," the statement read. "Prime Minister Trudeau acknowledged President Trump’s commitment to ending the war and recognized that he is uniquely positioned to broker a just and lasting peace."

Trump reiterated his belief that the war never should have begun, adding that it would have been avoided had he been in office at the time.

The discussion also touched on U.S. border security, a contentious issue for Canadian officials, especially after Trump imposed tariffs in response to drug trafficking at the U.S.-Canada border. Trump had agreed to a temporary 30-day pause on the tariffs starting February 3, with implementation expected in early March.

Trudeau asserted that Canada has reduced the flow of fentanyl into the U.S. by 90% and mentioned that Canada’s border czar will visit Washington next week for meetings with U.S. border chief Tom Homan.

Relations between Trump and Trudeau have been tense in recent weeks, particularly due to the tariffs and Trump’s expressed interest in incorporating Canada into the United States. Earlier in February, Trudeau remarked that he believes Trump is serious about turning Canada into the 51st U.S. state.

"I suspect that the Trump administration is well aware of our vast critical mineral resources, which could be a reason they continue to discuss absorbing Canada as the 51st state," Trudeau told CBC. "They recognize our economic potential and see an opportunity to benefit from it."

Trump has previously criticized the U.S.-Canada trade imbalance, arguing that the U.S. does not need Canadian goods.

"There’s no reason for this trade deficit," Trump posted on Truth Social. "We have abundant energy, should manufacture our own cars, and possess more lumber than we could ever use. Without the enormous subsidies they receive, Canada would struggle to remain a viable country. Harsh, but true."

He concluded with a controversial proposal: "Canada should become our cherished 51st state. Lower taxes, stronger military protection, and no tariffs—it’s a win-win!"

Following Canada’s victory in the 4 Nations Face-Off, Trudeau delivered a playful response on social media.

"You can’t take our country – and you can’t take our game," he posted on X.

This article was reported by journalist Angelia.