Harry Archie
US President Donald Trump has threatened to increase tariffs on Canada, blaming the country for wildfire smoke that has polluted the air in many parts of the United States.
In a post on Truth Social on Friday, Trump said the smoke has become a yearly problem that is costing the US billions of dollars.
He accused Canada of failing to properly manage its forests and remove dry vegetation that can fuel wildfires.
Trump said the cost of the smoke pollution should be added to the tariffs Canada already pays.
He also said he would speak with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney about the issue.
According to the Canadian Wildland Fire Information System, Canada had 937 active wildfires as of Saturday, with most of them still out of control.
The wildfire smoke has spread across several US states, leading to unhealthy air quality alerts.
Cities including Detroit, Washington and Chicago recorded some of the worst air pollution levels, and health officials advised people to limit outdoor activities.
The smoke has also raised concerns ahead of the FIFA World Cup final in New Jersey on Sunday.
Organisers said they are closely monitoring air quality.
Canada’s Emergency Management Minister, Eleanor Olszewski, said Canada and the United States are working closely together to fight the wildfires.
She added that Canada has invested 12 billion dollars in forest protection and wildfire prevention since 2020.
Experts say wildfire smoke can seriously affect people’s health because it contains tiny particles that can damage the lungs.
They also warned that climate change is making wildfire seasons longer and more severe by creating hotter and drier conditions.
Firefighters continue to battle hundreds of wildfires across Canada, especially in Ontario, while several remote communities have been evacuated.
Meanwhile, firefighters are also working to contain wildfires in Minnesota, near the Canadian border.
