TORONTO (AP) — Doug Ford, the Premier of Ontario, asserted on Wednesday that he harbors significant distrust towards U.S. President Donald Trump. Ford anticipates that Trump will soon seek to revisit the free trade agreement established during his initial term in office.

During a press conference, Ford emphasized the need for the Canadian federal government to brace for changes to the trade agreement in the upcoming fall season. His remarks followed a closed-door meeting involving provincial premiers and Prime Minister Mark Carney, which marked their first gathering since Trump intensified trade hostilities with a steep 35% tariff on Canadian goods last week.

Impact of the New Tariff

The new tariff, which became effective on Friday, targets goods not covered by the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) that Trump had previously negotiated. This move follows the failure of both countries to achieve a new trade accord before the August 1 deadline.

Although Trump had previously referred to the USMCA as “the fairest, most balanced and beneficial trade agreement we have ever signed,” the recent developments have put significant strain on trade relations. Carney has indicated that around 85% of trade with the U.S. remains tariff-free due to the provisions of the USMCA.

Quick Changes Expected

Ford, expressing urgency, suggested that Trump is unlikely to wait for the scheduled review of the trade agreement planned for next year. “He’s not waiting until 2026. At any given time, President Trump — not that he even follows the rules — he can pull the carpet out from underneath us,” Ford explained to reporters in Toronto.

When asked about the trustworthiness of Trump, Ford candidly stated, “I’m going to ask the people, do you trust President Trump? I don’t.”

Future Communications

Prime Minister Carney revealed during a press conference on Tuesday that he has not had recent communications with Trump but plans to reach out when it is prudent to do so.

Remaining Tariffs

Sector-specific tariffs, including a notable 50% duty on steel, aluminum, and copper imports from Canada, continue to be enforced. Carney has also indicated a willingness to consider lifting counter-tariffs if doing so would alleviate some of the pressures faced by Canada amid the ongoing trade dispute.