Canada's Ontario premier makes 'counter-offer' to Trump to buy Alaska

Ontario Premier Doug Ford responded to US President-elect Donald Trump's recent comments that suggested a merger between Canada and the US with a pointed "counter-offer", El.kz cites Anadolu.

Ford rejected the idea outright and humorously proposed his deal.

"I know under my watch for Ontario, I'd never go for that at all," Ford said Monday at a news conference in Toronto.

Trump stirred controversy again by suggesting Canada merge with the US hours after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation.

"Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State. The United States can no longer suffer the massive Trade Deficits and Subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat. Justin Trudeau knew this, and resigned," Trump wrote on Truth Social.

Ford dismissed the suggestion and emphasized Canada’s sovereignty.

"We have the greatest country in the world. We have the greatest province anywhere, any sub-sovereign nation is Ontario, and the rest of the provinces as well," he said.

Turning the tables, Ford offered a tongue-in-cheek response: "You know something, to the president -- I'll make him a counteroffer. How about if we buy Alaska and throw in Minnesota and Minneapolis at the same time? So, you know, it’s not realistic."

Ford noted Trump's tendency for provocative statements but pledged a commitment to protecting Ontario's position.

"I know he likes to making these comments, and he likes joking around. I take that seriously. He may be joking, but under my watch that will never, ever happen," he said.

Since his election victory in November, the president-elect has referred to Canada as the "51st state."

Trump previously threatened to slap a 25% tariff on Canadian imports unless Canada takes steps to significantly reduce drugs and illegal immigrants crossing into the US. Trump similarly threatened Mexico with the tariffs.

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