Canadian officials announced plans on Monday to strengthen border security following discussions between Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and US president-elect Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago, prompted by Trump’s tariff threats.
Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Dominic LeBlanc, who attended the meeting, confirmed the government’s intention to reinforce security measures in an interview with local news. LeBlanc emphasized that the measures would address potential threats while maintaining the balance of efficient and secure border operations.
The decision follows the incoming US administration’s concerns over migration and trade issues which were focal points during the leaders’ meeting. President-elect Donald Trump had vowed in his presidential victory speech to crack down on illegal migrants and introduce immigration restrictions.
The meeting with Trump came after he threatened to slap a 25 percent tariff on all imports from Canada and Mexico starting January 20, 2025—his inauguration day—unless both nations take action to reduce the flow of drugs and migrants across the borders. This development coincides with the approaching renegotiation date for the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement.
In response to Trump’s tariff threat provincial premiers across Canada raised the alarm over the devastating impact on “workers and jobs” in both countries. Ontario Premier Doug Ford called on the federal government to take the situation at the border seriously and called for a “Team Canada” approach. Alberta premier Danielle Smith described the incoming administration’s concerns as “valid” while emphasizing that the province, the largest exporter of oil and gas to the US, plays no role in illegal border activities. She pointed out that Alberta’s energy exports are transported through secure and reliable pipelines, ensuring safety and legal standards compliance.
During the talks, Trudeau and Trump discussed cross-border cooperation and the shared responsibility of addressing migration patterns. Analysts suggest that the move may also reflect Canada’s preparedness for potential shifts in US immigration and border policies under Trump’s administration, which has prioritized stricter border controls.
The discussed security enhancements would likely include increased patrols, advanced surveillance technologies, and closer collaboration with US agencies. LeBlanc addressed local media after the meeting, stating, “Our work now over the coming weeks is to continue the conversation, to show them why we think the Canadian border is secure but also to recognize their concern around fentanyl or illegal migration.”
The initiative comes amid ongoing debates about Canada’s immigration policies and border management, with Canada bracing for a surge of asylum seekers after the US election and the RCMP also announcing its preparedness. As these measures take shape, they will likely influence Canada-US relations and the broader discussion on balancing security with humanitarian commitments. These latest measures also come after US Homeland Security raised concerns over asylum seekers at the Canada border having less time with lawyers as part of new security policies, and also comes after an agreement to close the Roxham road crossing between Quebec and New York state.
