U.S. political analyst admits Canada and Mexico turn to Russia over U.S. duties

Canada and Mexico will face the negative consequences of the introduction of the U.S. duty, against which they may turn to Russia and China. This opinion was shared by American political scientist Garland Nixon in a conversation with Izvestia on February 1.

On the eve, US President Donald Trump announced plans to impose 25 percent duties on imports of goods from Canada and Mexico starting February 1. Later this decision was confirmed by White House press secretary Caroline Levitt. Among other things, Trump also promised to impose duties against goods from the European Union (EU) because of Brussels' "terrible attitude" toward Washington.

"I think those countries will be forced to negotiate to some extent. But I also think it will force other countries to turn to Russia, to turn to China. When the United States takes economic measures against other countries, it always ends up hurting us (the U.S. - Ed.). We force countries to be innovative and find ways to survive," Nixon commented.

He also noted that countries facing tariffs will be forced to look for other markets to sell their goods. In addition, admitted the interlocutor of the publication, they will be forced to put lower prices, which will lead to an increase in prices in the United States. Thus, the negative consequences of Trump's decision will affect both those against whom he imposes duties and the US itself.

"If we honestly evaluate the power of the United States compared to the power of Canada, Canada is not in the right economic position to engage in a battle with the United States. <...> The negative consequences would be many. I think the Trump administration is looking at this either as a negotiating tactic or as a long-term move," the expert added.

Imperial handwringing: why Trump wants Canada, Greenland and the Panama Canal

The U.S. president-elect is returning to a policy of seizing territory and resources, experts believe

Speaking to Izvestia on Saturday, Liam Mooney, founder of a Canadian design firm, said that with a long-term increase in duties by the US, Canada's well-being would be jeopardized. In his opinion, the sanctions could last as little as a few months or as long as years.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, in turn, said on January 31 that the country has an equal, strong and reasonable response to Trump's imposition of duties. He specified that the Canadian side does not want to introduce retaliatory measures against the United States, while if the American side "takes this step," Canada will be forced to act.