Donald Trump suggests merging Canada with the US following Trudeau’s exit.

In a bold and unexpected move, US President-elect Donald Trump reiterated his idea of making Canada the 51st state just hours after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation.

Trudeau’s resignation at 53 follows mounting pressure from his ruling Liberal Party, triggered by declining approval ratings. He confirmed he would remain in office until the party selects a new leader, with general elections approaching later this year.

Trump, 78, who has historically had a tense relationship with Trudeau, wasted no time in reviving his long-standing proposal. Since his November 5 victory, Trump has hinted at a potential US-Canada “merger,” a notion he has frequently voiced, including in his social media posts.

“Many Canadians LOVE the idea of becoming the 51st state. The US cannot continue suffering trade deficits and subsidies that keep Canada afloat. Justin knew this and stepped down,” Trump posted on Truth Social.

The president-elect further claimed that unifying the two nations would eliminate tariffs, reduce taxes, and bolster Canada’s national security against Russia and China. “Together, we’d be an incredible nation,” he added.

Canadian leaders have yet to formally respond to Trump’s remarks. However, tensions remain high as Trump has previously threatened to impose 25% tariffs on Canadian imports if border issues and illicit drug flow persist.

In his characteristic style, Trump took jabs at Trudeau, humorously referring to him as the “Governor of the Great State of Canada.”

This news report is curated with insights from multiple reliable news sources.